US20130186492A1 - Heating system - Google Patents

Heating system Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US20130186492A1
US20130186492A1 US13/791,652 US201313791652A US2013186492A1 US 20130186492 A1 US20130186492 A1 US 20130186492A1 US 201313791652 A US201313791652 A US 201313791652A US 2013186492 A1 US2013186492 A1 US 2013186492A1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
valve
fuel
flow
pressure
nozzle
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
US13/791,652
Other versions
US9739389B2 (en
Inventor
David Deng
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Continental Appliances Inc
Original Assignee
Continental Appliances Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from CN2011204016763U external-priority patent/CN202360799U/en
Priority claimed from US13/310,664 external-priority patent/US8985094B2/en
Priority claimed from CN 201220315268 external-priority patent/CN202708209U/en
Priority claimed from CN201210223977.0A external-priority patent/CN102748504B/en
Priority claimed from CN 201220314766 external-priority patent/CN202708189U/en
Priority claimed from CN2012102244143A external-priority patent/CN102720863B/en
Priority to US13/791,652 priority Critical patent/US9739389B2/en
Application filed by Continental Appliances Inc filed Critical Continental Appliances Inc
Priority to PCT/US2013/048769 priority patent/WO2014008142A1/en
Priority to EP13813888.8A priority patent/EP2867584A4/en
Publication of US20130186492A1 publication Critical patent/US20130186492A1/en
Priority to US15/175,799 priority patent/US10222057B2/en
Publication of US9739389B2 publication Critical patent/US9739389B2/en
Application granted granted Critical
Priority to US16/238,414 priority patent/US20190137097A1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Adjusted expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Images

Classifications

    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16KVALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K19/00Arrangements of valves and flow lines specially adapted for mixing fluids
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16KVALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K11/00Multiple-way valves, e.g. mixing valves; Pipe fittings incorporating such valves
    • F16K11/10Multiple-way valves, e.g. mixing valves; Pipe fittings incorporating such valves with two or more closure members not moving as a unit
    • F16K11/105Three-way check or safety valves with two or more closure members
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16KVALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K17/00Safety valves; Equalising valves, e.g. pressure relief valves
    • F16K17/02Safety valves; Equalising valves, e.g. pressure relief valves opening on surplus pressure on one side; closing on insufficient pressure on one side
    • F16K17/04Safety valves; Equalising valves, e.g. pressure relief valves opening on surplus pressure on one side; closing on insufficient pressure on one side spring-loaded
    • F16K17/0473Multiple-way safety valves
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F23COMBUSTION APPARATUS; COMBUSTION PROCESSES
    • F23DBURNERS
    • F23D14/00Burners for combustion of a gas, e.g. of a gas stored under pressure as a liquid
    • F23D14/46Details, e.g. noise reduction means
    • F23D14/48Nozzles
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F23COMBUSTION APPARATUS; COMBUSTION PROCESSES
    • F23DBURNERS
    • F23D14/00Burners for combustion of a gas, e.g. of a gas stored under pressure as a liquid
    • F23D14/46Details, e.g. noise reduction means
    • F23D14/62Mixing devices; Mixing tubes
    • F23D14/64Mixing devices; Mixing tubes with injectors
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F23COMBUSTION APPARATUS; COMBUSTION PROCESSES
    • F23NREGULATING OR CONTROLLING COMBUSTION
    • F23N1/00Regulating fuel supply
    • F23N1/007Regulating fuel supply using mechanical means
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F23COMBUSTION APPARATUS; COMBUSTION PROCESSES
    • F23NREGULATING OR CONTROLLING COMBUSTION
    • F23N5/00Systems for controlling combustion
    • F23N5/003Systems for controlling combustion using detectors sensitive to combustion gas properties
    • F23N5/006Systems for controlling combustion using detectors sensitive to combustion gas properties the detector being sensitive to oxygen
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F23COMBUSTION APPARATUS; COMBUSTION PROCESSES
    • F23NREGULATING OR CONTROLLING COMBUSTION
    • F23N2235/00Valves, nozzles or pumps
    • F23N2235/26Fuel nozzles
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F23COMBUSTION APPARATUS; COMBUSTION PROCESSES
    • F23NREGULATING OR CONTROLLING COMBUSTION
    • F23N2237/00Controlling
    • F23N2237/08Controlling two or more different types of fuel simultaneously
    • YGENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10TTECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T137/00Fluid handling
    • Y10T137/8593Systems
    • Y10T137/86485Line condition change responsive release of valve

Definitions

  • Certain embodiments disclosed herein relate generally to a heating source for use in a gas appliance. Aspects of certain embodiments may be particularly adapted for single fuel, dual fuel or multi-fuel use.
  • the gas appliance can include, but is not limited to: heaters, boilers, dryers, washing machines, ovens, fireplaces, stoves, etc.
  • a heating system can include any number of different components such as a fuel selector valve, a pressure regulator, a control valve, a burner nozzle, a burner, and/or an oxygen depletion sensor.
  • a heating system can be a single fuel, dual fuel or multi-fuel heating system.
  • the heating system can be configured to be used with one or more of natural gas, liquid propane, well gas, city gas, and methane.
  • a fuel selector valve can comprise a housing having an inlet, an outlet, a first flow path therethrough and a second flow path therethrough different from the first flow path; at least one pressure sensitive gate within the housing, wherein the at least one pressure sensitive gate is configured to be open when a fluid within a first pressure range is flowing through the fuel selector valve and closed when a fluid within a second pressure range, different from the first, is flowing through the fuel selector valve, wherein the flow of fluid acts on the gate to either open or close the gate; wherein the fuel selector valve is configured such that when the gate is open, fluid flows through the first flow path and when the gate is closed, fluid flows through the second flow path.
  • the heating system can comprise a burner and a burner nozzle, the burner nozzle comprising at least one inlet, at least one first outlet, and at least one second outlet.
  • the heating system can also comprise a first flow path from a fuel line to the first outlet and a second flow path from the fuel line to the second outlet.
  • the second flow path can include a movable body having a first position in which the second flow path is substantially closed, the flow through the second outlet is substantially close to zero, and the flow through the burner nozzle is less than in a second position. The movement of the movable body between the first and second positions can be controlled by the pressure of a fluid flowing through the burner nozzle.
  • the heating system can further include a control valve positioned within the first and/or second flow path, wherein the control valve has a first position configured to allow a first flow of fuel through the first and/or second flow path and a second position configured to allow a second flow of fuel through the first and/or second flow path.
  • the second flow of fuel can be less than the first flow of fluid.
  • a heating system can comprise a burner and a burner valve, the burner valve comprising at least one inlet, at least one first outlet, and at least one second outlet.
  • the heating system can also comprise a control valve having a first position that allows a first flow of fuel through a control valve body and a second position that allows a second flow of fuel through the control valve body.
  • the heating system can also comprise a first flow path from a fuel line through the at least one inlet, the control valve body, and the at least one first outlet; and a second flow path from the fuel line through the at least one inlet, the control valve body, and the at least one second outlet.
  • the second flow path can include a movable body positioned at least partially within the second flow path and having a first position in which the second flow path is substantially closed, the flow through the second outlet is substantially close to zero, and the flow through the burner valve is less than in a second position.
  • the movement of the movable body between the first and second positions can be controlled by the pressure of a fluid flowing through the burner valve.
  • a dual fuel heating system can include a nozzle comprising at least one inlet, at least one first outlet, and at least one second outlet; a first flow path from a fuel line to the at least one first outlet; a second flow path from the fuel line to the at least one second outlet; and a movable body positioned at least partially within the second flow path.
  • the second flow path can be substantially closed by the movable body, the amount of flow through the at least one second outlet is substantially close to zero, and the amount of flow through the nozzle is less than in a second position.
  • the movable body can be configured such that movement between the first and second positions is controlled by a pressure of a fluid flowing through the nozzle and/or system.
  • the dual fuel heating system can also include a control valve positioned within the first flow path.
  • the control valve can have a first position configured to allow a first flow of fuel through the first flow path and a second position configured to allow a second flow of fuel through the first flow path, wherein the second flow of fuel is less than the first flow of fuel.
  • the control valve may also be positioned within the second flow path and the first position is further configured to allow a third flow of fuel through the second flow path and the second position is further configured to allow a fourth flow of fuel through the second flow path, wherein the fourth flow of fuel is less than the third flow of fuel.
  • a dual fuel heating assembly can comprise a nozzle housing comprising an inlet, at least one first outlet, and at least one second outlet.
  • a first fluid pathway extends between the inlet and the at least one first outlet, and a second fluid pathway extends between the inlet and the at least one second outlet.
  • a pressure controlled valve can be positioned within the second fluid pathway, the valve having an open and a closed position, the valve configured such that the valve position is based on a fluid pressure of fluid flowing through the second fluid pathway to either allow or prevent fluid flow to the at least one second outlet.
  • the dual fuel heating assembly may include one or more of the following.
  • the pressure controlled valve can comprise a spring and a diaphragm, wherein the fluid pressure acts on the diaphragm to determine whether the valve is in the open or closed position.
  • a flow control valve can be positioned within at least one of the first and second fluid pathways, wherein the flow control valve is configured to control a size of the fluid pathway.
  • the flow control valve can be a rotatable valve.
  • the flow control valve can be positioned within both the first and second fluid pathways.
  • the pressure controlled valve can be part of the nozzle housing.
  • a dual fuel heating assembly can comprise a nozzle, a control valve and a movable body.
  • the nozzle can include at least one inlet, at least one first outlet, and at least one second outlet.
  • a first flow path can extend from a fuel line through the at least one inlet and the at least one first outlet.
  • a second flow path can extend from the fuel line through the at least one inlet and the at least one second outlet.
  • the control valve can have a first position that allows a first flow of fuel through a control valve body and a second position that allows a second flow of fuel through the control valve body, the control valve positioned in at least one of the first flow path and the second flow path.
  • the movable body can be positioned at least partially within the second flow path.
  • the second flow path is substantially closed by the movable body, the amount of flow through the at least one second outlet is substantially close to zero, and the amount of flow through the burner valve is less than in a second position.
  • the movable body is configured such that movement between the first and second positions is controlled by a pressure of a fluid flowing to the nozzle.
  • the control valve is positioned in both the first flow path and the second flow path.
  • a heating system can comprise a burner and a burner nozzle.
  • the burner nozzle can include a housing defining an inlet, an outlet and an inner chamber between the inlet and the outlet; a movable body within the inner chamber; and a biasing member.
  • the biasing member can be configured to regulate a positional relationship between the body and a wall of the inner chamber in response to a pressure of a fluid flow, flowing through the burner nozzle.
  • the amount of flow allowed through the burner nozzle in a first position of the movable body within the inner chamber, the amount of flow allowed through the burner nozzle is more than in a second position and the movable body can be configured such that movement between the first and second positions is controlled by the pressure of the fluid flow acting on the biasing member.
  • the pressure of the flow can act on the biasing member through contact with the movable body.
  • the movable body In the second position of some embodiments, the movable body can be configured to sealingly connect to the outlet.
  • the movable body may further comprise a channel passing therethrough.
  • the burner nozzle may further comprise a second outlet, and when the movable body is in the second position fluid flow can be prevented through the second outlet.
  • the burner nozzle can further include a second outlet, and when the movable body is in the second position flow of fluid is prevented through either of the outlet or the second outlet.
  • a heating system can include a burner, a nozzle and a biasing member.
  • the nozzle can have a nozzle housing, an inlet, an outlet and a valve body within the nozzle housing and between the inlet and the outlet.
  • the valve body and biasing member can be configured such that fluid flow of a predetermined pressure acts on the valve body to at least one of 1) move, 2) open, and 3) close the valve body within the nozzle housing to control fluid flow through the nozzle.
  • the heating system can also include an end cap within the outlet of the nozzle housing.
  • the end cap can have a first end configured to be manipulated so as to adjust the position of the end cap within the outlet and at least one orifice passing through the end cap.
  • the nozzle housing can be configured such that when the valve body is in an open position, fluid flows through the nozzle entering at the inlet and exiting at the outlet through the at least one orifice.
  • the nozzle can be configured such that adjusting the position of the end cap adjusts at least one of the predetermined pressure required to 1) move, 2) open, and 3) close the valve body within the nozzle housing.
  • the biasing member can be between the end cap and the valve body, the end cap configured to calibrate the nozzle to adjust the pressure required to move the valve body to an open position.
  • the end cap is a set screw.
  • the end of the end cap can cooperate with a tool to adjust the position of the end cap relative to the valve body.
  • This end of the end cap can include a detent.
  • the end cap can be adjusted from outside of the nozzle.
  • the end cap can also include an orifice and/or the at least one orifice.
  • a heating system can comprise an oxygen depletion sensor (ODS).
  • ODS can include an igniter, an inlet, an outlet, a first injector, a second injector, a first valve body and a first biasing member to control flow of fuel from the inlet to the first injector and a second valve body and a second biasing member to control flow of fuel from the inlet to the second injector.
  • At a first predetermined fluid pressure the first valve can be open and the second valve can be closed and at a second predetermined fluid pressure, greater than the first, the first valve can be closed by the second predetermined fluid pressure acting on the first valve and the second valve can be opened by the second predetermined fluid pressure acting on the second valve.
  • the valves can be set such that the first biasing member is configured to open the first valve by the first predetermined fluid pressure acting on the first valve, the first predetermined fluid pressure being insufficient to open the second valve.
  • an ODS can comprise a housing having a single inlet and a single outlet, and having a first fluid flow path and a second fluid flow path through the housing between the inlet and the outlet; a first air intake; a second air intake; a first injector within the housing and defining part of the first fluid flow path, the first injector comprising a first orifice, the first orifice configured to direct a first fuel from the inlet and towards the outlet while drawing air into the housing through the first air intake; a second injector within the housing and defining part of the second fluid flow path, the second injector comprising a second orifice, second first orifice configured to direct a second fuel from the inlet and towards the outlet while drawing air into the housing through the second air intake, wherein the first fuel is at a pressure different from the second fuel; a first valve within the housing and defining part of the first fluid flow path, the first valve configured to control the flow of fuel to the first injector; and a second valve within the housing and defining part of the
  • a heating system can have a burner, a control valve, and a nozzle.
  • the control valve can include a control valve housing, an input, an output and a first valve body within the control valve housing configured such that the position of the first valve body within the control valve housing determines whether the input is in fluid communication with the output and how much fluid can flow therebetween.
  • a nozzle in some embodiments can include a nozzle housing, a second valve within the nozzle housing, an inlet, at least two outlets, and a biasing member configured such that the second valve is open during fluid flow of a first predetermined pressure, and fluid flow of a second predetermined pressure causes the second valve to close one of the at least two outlets while one of the at least two outlets remains open.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective cutaway view of a portion of one embodiment of a heater configured to operate using either a first fuel source or a second fuel source.
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective cutaway view of the heater of FIG. 1 .
  • FIGS. 3A-C show some of the various possible combinations of components of a heating assembly 10 .
  • FIG. 3A illustrates a dual fuel heating assembly.
  • FIG. 3B shows another dual fuel heating assembly.
  • FIG. 3C illustrates an unregulated heating assembly.
  • FIGS. 4A-B illustrate an embodiment of a heating assembly in schematic, showing a first configuration for liquid propane and a second configuration for natural gas.
  • FIG. 5 is a chart showing typical gas pressures of different fuels.
  • FIG. 6 is an exploded view of an embodiment of a fuel selector valve.
  • FIGS. 7A-C are cross-sectional views of the fuel selector valve of FIG. 6 in first, second and third positions, respectively.
  • FIG. 8A is a side view of an embodiment of a fuel selector valve and pressure regulator.
  • FIG. 8B is a cross-section of the fuel selector valve and pressure regulator of FIG. 8A .
  • FIGS. 9A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a fuel selector valve in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 10A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a fuel selector valve in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 11A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a fuel selector valve in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 12A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a fuel selector valve in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 13A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a fuel selector valve in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 14A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a fuel selector valve in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 15A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a fuel selector valve in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 16A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a fuel selector valve in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 17A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a fuel selector valve in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 18A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a fuel selector valve in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 19A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a fuel selector valve in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 20A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a fuel selector valve in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 21A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a fuel selector valve in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 22A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a fuel selector valve in a first position and a second position.
  • FIG. 23 shows an exploded view of an embodiment of a nozzle.
  • FIGS. 23A-C are sectional views of the nozzle of FIG. 23 in first, second and third positions, respectively.
  • FIGS. 24A-B illustrate different configurations for an end of a nozzle.
  • FIG. 25A shows the nozzle of FIG. 23 and a control valve.
  • FIG. 25B illustrates the nozzle separated from the control valve of FIG. 25A , where control valve is shown in an exploded view including two possible internal valve bodies.
  • FIG. 25C is a cross-sectional view of the nozzle and control valve of FIG. 25A .
  • FIGS. 26A-B show perspective and top views respectively of a barbeque grill.
  • FIGS. 27A-B show perspective and bottom views respectively of a stove top.
  • FIGS. 28A-B are sectional views of an embodiment of a nozzle in first and second positions, respectively.
  • FIGS. 29A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a nozzle in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 30A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a nozzle in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 31A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a nozzle in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 32A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a nozzle in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 33A-D are sectional views of an embodiment of a nozzle in first, second, third and fourth positions, respectively.
  • FIGS. 34A-B show perspective and cross sectional views of a nozzle.
  • FIG. 35 shows an embodiment of an oxygen depletion sensor.
  • FIGS. 36A-B show perspective and cross sectional views of an oxygen depletion sensor.
  • FIGS. 37A-B show perspective and cross sectional views of an oxygen depletion sensor.
  • FIGS. 38A-B show perspective and cross sectional views of an oxygen depletion sensor.
  • FIG. 39A illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of a nozzle.
  • FIG. 39B shows a partial cross section of the nozzle of FIG. 39A .
  • FIG. 40A illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of a nozzle.
  • FIG. 40B is a partial cross section of the nozzle of FIG. 40A
  • FIG. 40C shows the nozzle of FIG. 40A in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 41A-B are sectional views of a pressure selectable valve in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 42A-B are sectional views of a nozzle in a first position and a second position.
  • FIG. 43 is a perspective cutaway view of a heater.
  • FIG. 44A shows a possible combination of components of a heating assembly.
  • FIG. 44B shows a possible combination of components of a heating assembly.
  • FIG. 45 shows a perspective view of a heating assembly.
  • FIG. 46A shows a sectional view of the heating assembly of FIG. 45 taken along line 46 A- 46 A, with a pressure selectable valve in a first position and a control valve in a first position.
  • FIG. 46B shows a sectional view of the heating assembly of FIG. 45 taken along line 46 A- 46 A, with a pressure selectable valve in a second position and a control valve in a first position.
  • FIG. 47A shows a sectional view of the heating assembly of FIG. 45 taken along line 46 A- 46 A, with a pressure selectable valve in a first position and a control valve in a second position.
  • FIG. 47B shows a sectional view of the heating assembly of FIG. 45 taken along line 46 A- 46 A, with a pressure selectable valve in a first position and a control valve in a second position.
  • FIG. 48A shows a front perspective view of a heating assembly.
  • FIG. 48B shows a rear perspective view of the heating assembly of FIG. 48A .
  • FIGS. 49A and 49B are cross-sectional views of the heating assembly of FIGS. 48A-48B .
  • FIGS. 50A and 50B are cross-sectional views of the heating assembly of FIGS. 48A-48B .
  • Fluid-fueled units such as those listed above, generally are designed to operate with a single fluid fuel type at a specific pressure or within a range of pressures.
  • some fluid-fueled heaters that are configured to be installed on a wall or a floor operate with natural gas at a pressure in a range from about 3 inches of water column to about 6 inches of water column, while others are configured to operate with liquid propane at a pressure in a range from about 8 inches of water column to about 12 inches of water column.
  • some gas fireplaces and gas logs are configured to operate with natural gas at a first pressure, while others are configured to operate with liquid propane at a second pressure that is different from the first pressure.
  • first and second are used for convenience, and do not connote a hierarchical relationship among the items so identified, unless otherwise indicated.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of a heater 100 .
  • the heater 100 can be a vent-free infrared heater, a vent-free blue flame heater, or some other variety of heater, such as a direct vent heater. Some embodiments include boilers, stoves, dryers, fireplaces, gas logs, etc. Other configurations are also possible for the heater 100 .
  • the heater 100 is configured to be mounted to a wall or a floor or to otherwise rest in a substantially static position. In other embodiments, the heater 100 is configured to move within a limited range. In still other embodiments, the heater 100 is portable.
  • the heater 100 can comprise a housing 200 .
  • the housing 200 can include metal or some other suitable material for providing structure to the heater 100 without melting or otherwise deforming in a heated environment.
  • the housing 200 comprises a window 220 , one or more intake vents 240 and one or more outlet vents 260 . Heated air and/or radiant energy can pass through the window 220 . Air can flow into the heater 100 through the one or more intake vents 240 and heated air can flow out of the heater 100 through the outlet vents 260 .
  • the heater 100 can include a heating assembly or heating source 10 .
  • a heating assembly 10 can include at least one or more of the components described herein.
  • the heater 100 includes a regulator 120 .
  • the regulator 120 can be coupled with an output line or intake line, conduit, or pipe 122 .
  • the intake pipe 122 can be coupled with a main control valve 130 , which, in some embodiments, includes a knob 132 .
  • the main control valve 130 is coupled to a fuel supply pipe 124 and an oxygen depletion sensor (ODS) pipe 126 .
  • the fuel supply pipe 124 can be coupled with a nozzle 160 .
  • the oxygen depletion sensor (ODS) pipe 126 can be coupled with an ODS 180 .
  • the ODS comprises a thermocouple 182 , which can be coupled with the main control valve 130 , and an igniter line 184 , which can be coupled with an igniter switch 186 .
  • Each of the pipes 122 , 124 , and 126 can define a fluid passageway or flow channel through which a fluid can move or flow.
  • the heater 100 comprises a burner 190 .
  • the ODS 180 can be mounted to the burner 190 , as shown.
  • the nozzle 160 can be positioned to discharge a fluid, which may be a gas, liquid, or combination thereof into the burner 190 .
  • a fluid which may be a gas, liquid, or combination thereof into the burner 190 .
  • either a first or a second fluid is introduced into the heater 100 through the regulator 120 .
  • the first or the second fluid proceeds from the regulator 120 through the intake pipe 122 to the main control valve 130 .
  • the control valve 130 can permit a portion of the first or the second fluid to flow into the fuel supply pipe 124 and permit another portion of the first or the second fluid to flow into the ODS pipe 126 .
  • the first or the second fluid can proceed through the fuel supply pipe 124 , through the nozzle 160 and is delivered to the burner 190 .
  • a portion of the first or the second fluid can proceed through the ODS pipe 126 to the ODS 180 .
  • Other configurations are also possible.
  • FIGS. 3A-C show some of the various possible combinations of components of a heating assembly 10 .
  • Such heating assemblies can be made to be single fuel, dual fuel or multi-fuel gas appliances.
  • the heating assembly 10 can be made so that the installer of the gas appliance can connect the assembly to one of two fuels, such as either a supply of natural gas (NG) or a supply of propane (LP) and the assembly will desirably operate in the standard mode (with respect to efficiency and flame size and color) for either gas.
  • NG natural gas
  • LP propane
  • FIG. 3A illustrates a dual fuel system, such as a vent free heater.
  • a dual fuel heating assembly can include a fuel selector valve 110 , a regulator 120 , a control valve or gas valve 130 , a nozzle 160 , a burner 190 and an ODS 180 .
  • the arrows indicate the flow of fuel through the assembly.
  • a dual fuel heating assembly such as a regulated stove or grill, can have similar components to the heating assembly shown in FIG. 3A , but without the ODS.
  • Still further heating assemblies, such as shown in FIG. 3C may not have a fuel selector valve 110 or a regulator 120 .
  • This gas system is unregulated and can be an unregulated stove or grill, among other appliances.
  • the unregulated system can be single fuel, dual fuel or multi-fuel.
  • one or more of the fuel selector valve, ODS and nozzle, in these and in other embodiments can function in a pressure sensitive manner.
  • FIGS. 4A-B a schematic representation of a heating assembly is shown first in a state for liquid propane ( FIG. 4A ) and second in a state for natural gas ( FIG. 4B ).
  • the fuel selector valve 110 it can be seen that the pressure of the fluid flow through the valve 110 can cause the gate, valve or door 12 , 14 to open or close, thus establishing or denying access to a channel 16 , 18 and thereby to a pressure regulator 20 , 22 .
  • the gate, valve or door 12 , 14 can be biased to a particular position, such as being spring loaded to bias the gate 12 to the closed position and the gate 14 to the open position.
  • FIG. 4A shows the gate 12 has been forced to open channel 16 and gate 14 has closed channel 18 .
  • This can provide access to a pressure regulator 20 configured to regulate liquid propane, for example.
  • FIG. 4B shows the fuel selector valve 110 at a rest state where the pressure of the flow is not enough to change to state of the gates 12 , 14 and channel 18 is open to provide access to pressure regulator 22 , which can be configured to regulate natural gas, for example.
  • the nozzle 160 and the ODS 180 can be configured to function in similar ways so that the pressure of the fluid flow can determine a path through the component.
  • the natural gas state FIG. 4B
  • the natural gas state can allow more fluid flow than the liquid propane state ( FIG. 4A ) as represented by the arrows.
  • FIG. 5 shows four different fuels: methane, city gas, natural gas and liquid propane; and the typical pressure range of each particular fuel.
  • the typical pressure range can mean the typical pressure range of the fuel as provided by a container, a gas main, a gas pipe, etc. and for consumer use, such as the gas provided to an appliance.
  • natural gas may be provided to a home gas oven within the range of 3 to 10 inches of water column.
  • propane may be provided to a barbeque grill from a propane tank with the range of 8 to 14 inches of water column.
  • the delivery pressure of any fuel may be further regulated to provide a more certain pressure range or may be unregulated.
  • the barbeque grill may have a pressure regulator so that the fuel is delivered to the burner within the range of 10 to 12 inches of water column rather than within the range of 8 to 14 inches of water column.
  • city gas can be a combination of one or more different gases.
  • city gas can be the gas typically provided to houses and apartments in China, and certain other countries. At times, and from certain sources, the combination of gases in city gas can be different at any one given instant as compared to the next.
  • each fuel has a typical range of pressures that it is delivered at, these ranges can advantageously be used in a heating assembly to make certain selections in a pressure sensitive manner.
  • certain embodiments may include one or more pressure regulators and the pressure of the fluid flow downstream of the pressure regulator can be generally known so as to also be able to make certain selections or additional selections in a pressure sensitive manner.
  • FIG. 6 illustrates the components of an embodiment of a fuel selector valve 110 .
  • the fuel selector valve 110 can be for selecting between two different fuels.
  • the fuel selector valve 110 can have a first mode configured to direct a flow of a first fuel (such as natural gas or NG) in a first path through the fuel selector valve and a second mode configured to direct a flow of a second fuel (such as liquid propane or LP) in a second path through the fuel selector valve.
  • a first fuel such as natural gas or NG
  • a second fuel such as liquid propane or LP
  • This can be done in many different ways such as the opening and/or closing of one or more valves, gates, or doors 12 , 14 to establish various flow paths through the fuel selector valve 110 .
  • the opening and/or closing of one or more valves, gates, or doors can be performed in a pressure sensitive manner, as explained below.
  • the fuel selector valve 110 of FIGS. 6-8B includes a main housing 24 , a fuel source connection 26 , a gasket 28 and valves 12 , 14 .
  • a heating assembly 10 can connect to a fuel source at the fuel source connection 26 .
  • the fuel source connection 26 can be threaded or otherwise configured to securely connect to a fuel source.
  • the main housing 24 can define channels 16 , 18 and the valves 12 , 14 can reside within the channels 16 , 18 in the main housing 24 .
  • the housing 24 can be a single piece or a multi-piece housing.
  • valves, gates, or doors 12 , 14 there can be one or more valves, gates, or doors 12 , 14 that can function in different ways, as well as one or more channels 16 , 18 within the housing 24 .
  • the gates, doors or valves 12 , 14 can work in many different ways to open or close and to thereby establish or deny access to a channel 16 , 18 .
  • the channels 16 , 18 can direct fluid flow to an appropriate flow passage, such as to the appropriate pressure regulator 20 , 22 , if pressure regulators are included in the heating assembly ( FIGS. 8A-B ).
  • channel 16 can direct flow to a first inlet 23 on a regulator 120 that connects to pressure regulator 22 and channel 18 can direct flow to a second inlet 21 that connects to pressure regulator 20 .
  • Both pressure regulators 20 , 22 can direct flow to the outlet 25 .
  • a regulator 120 is shown that combines the two pressure regulators 20 , 22 into one housing other configurations are also possible.
  • the shown fuel selector valve 110 of FIGS. 6-8B further includes, biasing members 32 , 34 , front portions 30 , 40 and rear portions 36 , 38 .
  • Biasing members 32 , 34 can be metal springs, elastic, foam or other features used to bias the valves 12 , 14 to a particular position, such as being spring loaded to bias both valves 12 , 14 to the closed position.
  • the fuel selector valve 110 can be set such that each valve 12 , 14 will open and/or close at different pressures acting on the valve. In this way, the fuel selector valve 110 can use fluid pressure to select a flow pathway through the valve. In some embodiments, this can be a function of the spring force of each individual spring, as well as the interaction of the spring with the valve. In some embodiments, the position of the spring and the valve can be adjusted to further calibrate the pressure required to open the valve 12 , 14 .
  • the front portions 30 , 40 can be threadedly received into the channels 16 , 18 . This can allow a user to adjust the position of the front portions 30 , 40 within the channels and thereby adjust the compression on the spring, as can best be seen in FIG. 7A .
  • the spring 32 , 34 is located between the valve 12 , 14 and the respective rear portion 36 , 38 . The spring biases the valve to the closed position where it contacts the front portion 30 , 40 .
  • Each front portion 30 , 40 has holes 42 passing therethrough that are blocked by the valve when the valve is in contact with the front portion.
  • the adjustment of the position of the front portion with respect to the valve can affect the amount of pressure required to move the valve away from the front portion to open the valve.
  • the front portions 30 , 40 can be adjustable from outside the housing 24 . This can allow for the valve 110 to be calibrated without having to disassemble the housing 24 . In other embodiments, such as that shown, the front portions 30 , 40 can be preset, such as at a factory, and are not accessible from outside the housing 24 . This can prevent undesired modification or tampering with the valve 110 . Other methods and systems of calibration can also be used.
  • FIG. 7A shows a first open position where a threshold amount of pressure has been achieved to cause the valve 14 to open, while valve 12 still remains closed.
  • FIG. 7B illustrates a second open position where a second threshold pressure has been reached to close valve 14 at the rear end of the valve, and a third threshold pressure has been achieved to open valve 12 .
  • the second and third threshold pressures can be the same.
  • the third threshold pressure can be greater than the second and the first threshold pressures. Of course, this may change for different configurations, such as where the springs interact and bias the valves in different ways and to different positions.
  • the fuel selector valve 110 can be used in a dual fuel appliance, such as an appliance configured to use with NG or LP.
  • the first threshold pressure to open valve 14 may be set to be between about 3 to 8 inches of water column, including all values and sub-ranges therebetween. In some embodiments, the first threshold pressure is about: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8 inches of water column.
  • the second threshold pressure to close valve 14 may be set to be between about 5 to 10 inches of water column, including all values and sub-ranges therebetween.
  • the third threshold pressure to open valve 12 can be set to be between about 8 to 12 inches of water column, including all values and sub-ranges therebetween. In some embodiments, the third threshold pressure is about: 8, 9, 10, 11 or 12 inches of water column.
  • the first and second threshold pressures are between about 3 to 8 inches of water column, where the second is greater than the first and the third threshold pressure is between about 10 to 12 inches of water column. In this embodiment, as in most dual fuel embodiments, the ranges do not overlap.
  • a spring can be used that has a linear spring force in the desired range of movement, compression or extension, used in the fuel selection valve.
  • the spring force for a particular use of a particular spring can be based on many different factors such as material, size, range of required movement, etc.
  • valve 12 can form one of more valve seats to prevent fluid flow from passing the valve or to redirect fluid flow in a particular manner.
  • valve 12 has a forward ledge portion 43 and valve 14 has a forward ledge portion 44 and a rearward ledge portion 46 , all of which are used to seat the valve 12 , 14 against another surface and close the valve.
  • the forward ledge portions 43 , 44 seat with the front portions 30 , 40 and the rearward ledge portion 46 seats with a ledge 48 within the outer housing 24 .
  • valves with a portion that seats in multiple locations within the outer housing, for example to have a first closed position, on open position and a second closed position.
  • a front face and a back face of a ledge on a valve could be used to seat the valve, as one further example.
  • the front 30 , 40 and rear 36 , 38 portions can be used to position the valve 12 , 14 within the housing 24 .
  • the rear portions 36 , 38 can surround a central region of the valve and the valve can move or slide within the rear portion.
  • the spring 32 , 34 can be between the valve and the rear portion.
  • the front portions 30 , 40 can have one or more holes 42 passing therethrough. Fluid pressure acting on the valve 12 , 14 , such as through the holes 42 can force the valve to open.
  • the front portions 30 , 40 can have a channel 50 .
  • the channel 50 can be used to guide movement of the valve.
  • the channel can direct fluid flow at the valve to open the valve. Because there are no exits in the channel, fluid flow does not pass around the valve but rather remains constantly acting against the valve as long as there is flow through the fuel selector valve 110 .
  • front and/or rear portions can be permanently or integrally attached to the housing 24 .
  • Some embodiments do not have either or both of a front or rear portion.
  • FIGS. 9-22 show schematic representations of various other designs for a fuel selector valve 110 .
  • Each set of figures “A” & “B” represent the fuel selector valve in a first state (A) and a second state (B) where a fluid flow pressure would preferably be greater in the second state.
  • FIGS. 9A-B show a series of gates 12 , 14 .
  • gate 14 In the initial position and at the first fluid flow, gate 14 is open and gate 12 is closed.
  • An increased fluid pressure acts on the gates to close gate 14 and to open gate 12 .
  • the gates can be resilient and can act as springs. Thus, once the pressure is decreased, the gates can return to their initial positions.
  • FIGS. 10A-B includes a pressure plate 52 and a spring 32 , where fluid pressure can act on the pressure plate 52 to move it from the initial position where one channel 18 is open to the second position where the original channel 18 is closed and a second channel 16 is open.
  • the pressure plate 52 can have one or more holes 42 to allow fluid to flow through the plate 52 in some locations. In some embodiments the plate 52 can be smaller than the internal chamber so that fluid can flow around the plate instead or in addition to through the plate.
  • FIGS. 11A-B show a series of gates 12 , 14 in a teeter-totter configuration and a spring 32 .
  • Gate 14 has an increased surface area compared to gate 12 so that more of the fluid flow and pressure will act on gate 14 .
  • gate 14 In the initial position and at the first fluid flow, gate 14 is open and gate 12 is closed.
  • An increased fluid pressure acts on gate 14 to close channel 18 while expanding the spring 32 . This also opens gate 12 because the gates are connected by connecting rod 54 .
  • FIGS. 12A-B show a series of gates 12 , 14 in the form of steel balls connected to magnets 56 .
  • the initial fluid flow pressure is not enough to overcome the magnetic attraction between the steel balls 12 , 14 and the magnets 56 .
  • gate 14 remains open and gate 12 remains closed.
  • Increased fluid pressure overcomes the attraction and the steel balls move from their initial position to close gate 14 and to open gate 12 .
  • the magnet 56 will cause the ball to return to the initial position.
  • FIGS. 13A-B is very similar to FIGS. 12A-B except that only one steel ball and a magnet are used instead to two and the ball blocks one path in the first position and blocks another path in the second.
  • FIGS. 14A-B show a magnet and sliding gate 12 , similar to the single steel ball and magnet in FIGS. 13A-B . Holes 42 passing through the gate 12 allow fluid to flow through the gate in the initial position but are blocked in the second position.
  • FIGS. 15A-B show a diaphragm that works in a similar manner to the pressure plate of FIGS. 10A-B .
  • An increased pressure causes the diaphragm to move. In the initial position and at the first fluid flow, channel 18 open and channel 16 is closed. An increased fluid pressure acts on the diaphragm to plug channel 18 with gate 14 and to open gate 12 .
  • Gate 12 can be part of a tension rod 60 which may also include a spring 32 .
  • the tension rod can have holes 42 therethrough to allow flow past the diaphragm. Moving the diaphragm advances the rod and the gate 12 is moved away from channel 16 to allow flow therethrough. Once the pressure is decreased, the gates can return to their initial positions.
  • FIGS. 9-15 illustrates a fuel selector valve 110 that makes a selection between one of two exits.
  • FIGS. 16-22 show other embodiments with two or more exits where generally all of the exits can be open, and then one or more of the exits can be blocked.
  • the fuel selector valves of FIGS. 16-22 function is similar ways to the fuel selector valves shown in FIGS. 9-15 and described above.
  • any of the pressure sensitive valves described herein can function in one of many different ways, where the valve is controlled by the pressure of the fluid flowing through the valve.
  • many of the embodiments shown herein comprise helical or coil springs. Other types of springs, or devices can also be used in the pressure sensitive valve.
  • the pressure sensitive valves can operate in a single stage or a dual stage manner. Many valves described herein both open and close the valve under the desired circumstances (dual stage), i.e. open at one pressure for a particular fuel and close at another pressure for a different fuel. Single stage valves may also be used in many of these applications.
  • Single stage valves may only open or close the valve, or change the flow path through the valve in response to the flow of fluid.
  • the fuel selector valve 110 shown in FIG. 7A is shown with a single stage valve 12 and a dual stage valve 14 .
  • the dual stage valve 14 can be modified so that the valve is open in the initial condition and then closes at a set pressure, instead of being closed, opening at a set pressure and then closing at a set pressure.
  • the valve can include an offset.
  • the offset can offset the valve away from the front or rear portion, so that the valve cannot be closed at either the front or back end respectively. Offsets can also be used to ensure the valve does not move beyond a certain position. For example, an offset can be used that allows the valve to close, but that prevents the valve from advancing farther, such as to prevent damage to the valve housing or housing wall.
  • the fuel selector valve 110 can be used to determine a particular fluid flow path for a fluid at a certain pressure or in a pressure range.
  • Some embodiments of heating assembly can include first and second pressure regulators 20 , 22 .
  • the fuel selector valve 110 can advantageously be used to direct fluid flow to the appropriate pressure regulator without separate adjustment or action by a user.
  • first and second pressure regulators 20 , 22 are separate and in some embodiments, they are connected in a regulator unit 120 , as shown in FIGS. 4A-B & 8 A-B.
  • a regulator unit 120 including first and second pressure regulators 20 , 22 can advantageously have a two-in, one-out fluid flow configuration, though other fluid flow configurations are also possible including one-in or two-out.
  • the pressure regulators 20 , 22 can function in a similar manner to those discussed in U.S. application Ser. No. 11/443,484, filed May 30, 2006, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,607,426, incorporated herein by reference and made a part of this specification; with particular reference to the discussion on pressure regulators at columns 3-9 and FIGS. 3-7 of the issued patent.
  • the first and second pressure regulators 20 , 22 can comprise spring-loaded valves or valve assemblies.
  • the pressure settings can be set by tensioning of a screw that allows for flow control of the fuel at a predetermined pressure or pressure range and selectively maintains an orifice open so that the fuel can flow through spring-loaded valve or valve assembly of the pressure regulator. If the pressure exceeds a threshold pressure, a plunger seat can be pushed towards a seal ring to seal off the orifice, thereby closing the pressure regulator.
  • the pressure selected depends at least in part on the particular fuel used, and may desirably provide for safe and efficient fuel combustion and reduce, mitigate, or minimize undesirable emissions and pollution.
  • the first pressure regulator 20 can be set to provide a pressure in the range from about 3 to 6 inches of water column, including all values and sub-ranges therebetween.
  • the threshold or flow-terminating pressure is about: 3, 4, 5, or 6 inches of water column.
  • the second pressure regulator 22 can be configured to provide a second pressure in the range from about 8 to 12 inches of water column, including all values and sub-ranges therebetween.
  • the second threshold or flow-terminating pressure is about: 8, 9, 10, 11 or 12 inches of water column.
  • the pressure regulators 20 , 22 can be preset at the manufacturing site, factory, or retailer to operate with selected fuel sources.
  • the regulator 120 includes one or more caps to prevent consumers from altering the pressure settings selected by the manufacturer.
  • the heater 100 and/or the regulator unit 120 can be configured to allow an installation technician and/or user or customer to adjust the heater 100 and/or the regulator unit 120 to selectively regulate the heater unit for a particular fuel source.
  • a heating source may or may not include a fuel selector valve 110 and/or a regulator 120 .
  • a fuel source can be connected to a control valve 130 , or the fuel selector valve and/or regulator can direct fuel to a control valve 130 .
  • the control valve 130 can comprise at least one of a manual valve, a thermostat valve, an AC solenoid, a DC solenoid and a flame adjustment motor.
  • the control valve 130 can direct fuel to the burner 190 through a nozzle 160 .
  • the control valve 130 may also direct fuel to an ODS 180 .
  • the control valve 130 can control the amount of fuel flowing through the control valve to various parts of the heating assembly.
  • the control valve 130 can manually and/or automatically control when and how much fuel is flowing.
  • the control valve can divide the flow into two or more flows or branches.
  • the different flows or branches can be for different purposes, such as for an oxygen depletion sensor (ODS) 180 and for a burner 190 .
  • ODS oxygen depletion sensor
  • the control valve 130 can output and control an amount of fuel for the ODS 180 and an amount of fuel for the burner 190 .
  • FIGS. 23-23C one embodiment of a nozzle 160 is shown in FIGS. 23-23C .
  • the nozzle 160 used in a heating assembly can be a pressure sensitive nozzle similar to the fuel selector valves 110 described herein.
  • FIGS. 23-23C illustrate a nozzle 160 with an internal structure very similar to the fuel selector valve 110 shown in FIGS. 6-8B .
  • the illustrated nozzle includes a front portion 30 ′, a valve 12 ′, a spring 32 ′, and a rear portion 36 ′. All of which can be positioned inside a nozzle body 62 .
  • the nozzle body 62 can be a single piece or a multi-piece body.
  • the nozzle body can include a flange 68 and threads 70 .
  • the flange and threads can be used to attach the nozzle to another structure, such as a pipe or line running from the control valve.
  • the flange 68 is configured to be engaged by a tightening device, such as a wrench, which can aid in securing the nozzle 160 to a nozzle line.
  • the flange 68 comprises two or more substantially flat surfaces, and in other embodiments, is substantially hexagonal as shown.
  • the nozzle body 62 can define a substantially hollow cavity or pressure chamber 16 ′.
  • the pressure chamber 16 ′ can be in fluid communication with an inlet and an outlet.
  • the outlet defines an outlet area that is smaller than the area defined by the inlet.
  • the pressure chamber 16 ′ decreases in cross-sectional area toward a distal end thereof.
  • a front ledge 43 ′ on the valve 12 ′ can contact the front portion 30 ′ such that the flow passages or holes 42 ′ are blocked, when the nozzle is in the initial “off” position ( FIG. 23A ).
  • the flow passages or holes 42 ′ can define the inlet. Fluid flow into the nozzle 160 and acting on the valve 12 ′, such as acting on the valve 12 ′ by flowing through the holes 42 ′ and the channel 50 ′, can force the valve to compress the spring 32 ′ and move such that fluid can flow through the nozzle 160 .
  • FIG. 23B shows the nozzle 160 in a first open position. Fluid is flowing through the nozzle and out the outlet holes or orifices 64 , 66 .
  • valve 12 ′ can reduce or block flow through the nozzle 160 .
  • flow through orifice 64 can be blocked by the valve 12 ′, while one or more orifices 66 remain open.
  • the orifices 66 can have one of many different configurations, such as comprising two, three, four, or more holes or slots as shown in FIGS. 23-24B .
  • the orifice 64 can also have many different configurations.
  • the nozzle 160 can be used in single fuel, dual fuel or multi-fuel appliances.
  • the nozzle 160 can be used in a dual fuel appliance, such as an appliance configured for use with either of NG or LP.
  • the first threshold pressure to open valve 12 ′ may be set to be between about 3 to 8 inches of water column (for NG), including all values and sub-ranges therebetween.
  • the first threshold pressure is about: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8 inches of water column.
  • the second threshold pressure to close orifice 64 may be set to be above about 8 inches of water column (for LP).
  • the second threshold pressure is about: 8, 9, 10, 11 or 12 inches of water column. In this way the nozzle 160 can be used with different fuels and yet provide an amount of fuel to the burner 190 that will create similar size of flames and/or BTU values.
  • the front portion 30 ′ of the nozzle 160 can be adjusted to calibrate the threshold pressures.
  • the spring 32 ′ can have a spring constant (K) of about 0.0067 N/mm, between about 0.006-0.007 N/mm, or between about 0.005-8.008 N/mm.
  • the spring can be approximately 7 mm, or between approximately 6-8 mm long.
  • the spring can have an outer diameter between approximately 5-9 mm.
  • the spring can be made from wire that is approximately 0.15 mm, 0.2 mm, or between approximately 0.1-0.3 mm in diameter. Other sizes, lengths and spring constants can also be used.
  • the nozzle 160 is shown together with a control valve 130 in FIG. 25A .
  • a heating assembly can have various different combinations of components and can be made to be single fuel, dual fuel or multi-fuel.
  • the control valve 130 shown in FIG. 25A can be used in many different heating assemblies including those discussed with reference to FIGS. 3B-C .
  • the control valve can be a manual valve such as to adjust a flame height on a grill.
  • the control valve 130 can direct fuel to the burner 190 through the nozzle 160 .
  • the control valve 130 could also be modified to control fuel flow to an ODS but such modifications are not shown.
  • FIGS. 26A-27B illustrate a barbeque grill 101 having a heating assembly utilizing the nozzle 160 and control valve 130 shown in FIG. 25A .
  • the barbeque grill 101 is shown with three different types of burners, namely a side burner, an infrared burner, and a recessed burner.
  • FIGS. 27A-B similarly show a gas stove top/range having a heating assembly utilizing the nozzle 160 and control valve 130 shown in FIG. 25A .
  • the barbeque grill 101 and gas stove top can be dual fuel appliances. For example, they can be used with either propane or natural gas. If using propane, an external pressure regulator may also be used.
  • a control valve 130 can be connected to a nozzle 160 .
  • the nozzle 160 can be one of many different types of nozzles, including those discussed herein.
  • the control valve 130 can have a knob or other control feature 132 to move a valve body 134 within the control valve housing 136 to the desired position.
  • FIG. 25B shows two different internal valve bodies 134 , 134 ′ that could be used, though other configurations are also possible.
  • the first valve body 134 can be used to provide an “OFF” position and two “ON” positions.
  • the two “ON” positions can be a high flow position and a low flow position.
  • the flow of fuel into the control valve can be greater in the high flow position then in the low flow position.
  • the valve body 134 can control the flow by providing two or more different size holes 138 through which the fuel can flow.
  • the second valve body 134 ′ can be used to provide an “OFF” position and an “ON” position.
  • the “ON” position can be adjustable to provide different amounts of fuel depending on the position of the valve body within the control valve housing.
  • the valve body 134 ′ can have low and high positions and can be adjustable between those two positions.
  • the amount of fuel flow can be adjusted to a desired setting that may include, low, high, medium, or something in-between those positions.
  • valve bodies 134 , 134 ′ can be facilitated by one or more holes or slots 138 .
  • the holes/slots can be different sizes, and/or can change size along their length.
  • Valve body 134 has two different sized holes 138 and valve body 134 ′ has a slot 138 that changes size along its length.
  • the control valve housing 136 can have an inlet 135 . The position of the valve body within the housing 136 determines whether the hole or slot 138 is in fluid communication with the inlet 135 and how much fuel can flow through the control valve 130 .
  • the cross-section in FIG. 25C shows the control valve 130 in one of the “ON” positions.
  • the nozzle 160 shown is a pressure sensitive nozzle.
  • the pressure sensitive nozzle can be single or dual stage. With a dual stage pressure sensitive nozzle, the pressure of the fluid flow opens the internal valve 12 ′. Independent of whether the pressure sensitive nozzle is dual stage or single stage, the pressure of the fluid flow controls whether the exit orifice 64 is open or closed and thereby controls the amount of flow through the nozzle.
  • the nozzle 160 and control valve 130 can be set such that one fuel that flows at a known pressure opens the valve 12 ′ and allows the exit orifice 64 to remain open while a second fuel opens the valve 12 ′ yet closes the exit orifice 64 .
  • the second fuel flow would only pass through the exit orifices 66 .
  • the nozzle 160 and control valve 130 can be set so that this is the case independent of the position of the control valve 130 . In other words, whether the control valve 130 is set to a high “ON” position or a low “ON” position the nozzle 160 would operate with a predetermined exit orifice configuration based on the type of fuel used (based on the expected pressure range of that fuel).
  • FIGS. 28-34B illustrate various additional embodiments of a nozzle 160 .
  • the nozzles are similar to the nozzle described above and illustrate additional ways that one or more orifices can be opened, closed or modified in a pressure sensitive manner.
  • FIGS. 28A-B show a nozzle 160 with one orifice 64 and a channel 72 in the valve 12 ′. Fluid can flow around the through the valve 12 ′. As the pressure increases, the valve 12 ′ can contact the orifice 64 and decrease the effective size of the orifice 64 . For example, the valve 12 can contact and seal the orifice 64 such that only flow from the channel 72 can leave the nozzle 160 through the orifice. As the channel 72 can have a smaller diameter than the orifice 64 , this can decrease the amount of fluid flow through the nozzle 160 . In some embodiments, the valve 12 ′ can fit inside the orifice 64 as shown ( FIG. 28B ).
  • FIGS. 29A-32B all show additional nozzles 160 where the fluid flow at a certain pressure can dislodge or move another piece of material to block or close one or more exit orifices 64 .
  • FIGS. 29A-B show a steel ball 12 ′ and a magnet 56 ′.
  • FIGS. 30A-B show a force plate 52 ′ and a magnet 56 ′.
  • FIGS. 31A-B show a resilient gate 12 ′.
  • FIGS. 32A-B show a force plate 52 ′ and a magnet 56 ′.
  • the arrows illustrate the fuel flow paths through the various nozzles.
  • the nozzle show can be pressure sensitive such that it can be used interchangeably with different fuels, but can also advantageously be self regulating while in use with a single fuel.
  • the nozzle can be configured such that the volume of fluid flowing through the nozzle can be directly related to the fluid pressure.
  • the nozzle can be configured to control the flow such that as the pressure increases, the volume of fuel flowing through the nozzle decreases.
  • the nozzle can provide a varying volume of fuel as the pressure of the fuel fluctuates while maintaining a constant BTU value.
  • the valve 12 ′ can have an end 73 that cooperates with the internal chamber 16 ′ to determine the volume of fluid that can flow through the valve 12 ′.
  • the valve end 73 can be cylindrical while a surface 74 of the internal chamber 16 ′ can be frustoconical.
  • FIGS. 33A , B, C, and D illustrate how the gap can change as the pressure increases and the valve moves closer to the surface, until it contacts the surface and prevents flow through the valve 12 ′.
  • the valve end 73 includes a gasket 78 to sealingly close the gap 76 .
  • the nozzle 160 shown in FIGS. 33A-D can include one or more additional orifices 66 .
  • the valve 12 ′ can have a channel running through the valve 12 ′ similar to that shown in FIGS. 28A-B .
  • FIGS. 33A-D Similar to the discussion with respect to the valve in FIG. 7A , the front portion 30 ′ can be threadedly received into the interior of the nozzle. Calibrating the valve adjusts force required to move the valve 12 ′ within the valve body or housing 62 . This can be done in many ways, such as by adjusting the position of the valve 12 ′ within the valve body or housing 62 and adjusting the compression or tension on a spring.
  • calibration can adjust the position of the valve body 12 ′ in relation to the front portion 30 ′ while adjusting the amount of force required to act on the spring to move the valve a desired amount.
  • the spring biases the valve to the closed position and adjusting the position of the front portion can increase or decrease the amount of pressure required to further compress the spring and open the valve to allow flow therethrough.
  • the position of the rear portion 36 ′, as well as, or in addition to the front portion 30 ′ can be adjusted to calibrate the nozzle.
  • the rear portion 36 ′ can be threadedly received into the interior of the nozzle.
  • the front and rear portions can be adjustable from either or both of inside and outside the housing 62 .
  • the heating assembly can allow for calibration of one or more of the various valves without disassembly of the heating assembly.
  • FIGS. 34A-B an embodiment of a nozzle 160 is shown.
  • the position of both the front 30 ′ and rear 36 ′ portions can be adjusted. Further, at least the position of the rear portion 36 ′ can be adjusted from outside the nozzle body or housing 62 .
  • the nozzle 160 can comprise an adjustment feature 88 .
  • the adjustment feature 88 can be threadedly received into the housing.
  • the adjustment feature 88 can comprise an end cap.
  • the adjustment feature 88 can comprise a set screw. Adjustment of the position of the set screw can adjust the position of the rear portion 36 ′ and the pressure of the spring 32 ′ acting on the rear portion 36 ′.
  • the set screw can have a detent 90 , for example, to receive the head of a screw driver, Allen wrench or other tool.
  • the tool can be used to adjust the position of the set screw from outside the nozzle housing 62 .
  • the set screw can include one or more holes that pass through the set screw.
  • the one or more holes can comprise exit orifices 64 , 66 .
  • the exit orifice 64 connects to the detent 90 , other configurations are also possible.
  • the adjustment feature can be a part of the rear portion, or be integrally formed with the rear portion.
  • the adjustment feature 88 can have a frustoconical interior surface 74 ′ similar to the valve interior of FIGS. 33A-D .
  • the valve end 73 can cooperate with the surface 74 ′ to determine the volume of fluid that can flow through the valve 12 ′.
  • the gap 76 between the two surfaces can slowly decrease, thus a smaller volume of fuel can pass through the gap 76 .
  • the adjustment feature 88 can also be used with other valves and/or nozzles, for example, the nozzles shown in FIGS. 23-25C , 28 A-B.
  • the adjustment feature 88 can also be used in such as way so as not to be within or form part of the flow path of fuel through the valve or nozzle.
  • FIG. 34B also illustrates two offsets 91 , 93 .
  • the offset 91 can be used to prevent the valve 12 ′ from contacting the front portion 30 ′ in such a way as to close the valve completely at the front end.
  • Offsets or similar structures can be used along the valve to prevent closing the valve on either or both of the front and the back sides of the valve.
  • an offset can be used with a single stage valve. Offsets can be part of the valve, or part of other structures.
  • the front or rear portion can include an offset. Offsets can also be used to ensure the valve does not move beyond a certain position.
  • an offset 93 can be used that allows the valve to close, but that prevents the valve from advancing farther, such as to prevent damage to the valve housing or housing wall.
  • FIG. 35 shows one embodiment of an oxygen depletion sensor (ODS) 180 .
  • ODS 180 or pilot light can include a nozzle similar to the burner nozzles 160 shown and/or described herein and can be used in some heating assemblies.
  • the ODS 180 shown includes a thermocouple 182 , an electrode 80 and an ODS nozzle 82 .
  • the ODS nozzle 82 can include an injector 84 and an air inlet 86 .
  • a fuel can flow from the ODS line 143 through the ODS nozzle 82 and toward the thermocouple 182 . The fuel flows near the air inlet 86 , thus drawing in air for mixing with the fuel.
  • the injector 84 can be a pressure sensitive injector and can include any of the features of the pressure sensitive nozzles described herein.
  • the exit orifices 64 and/or 66 can be located along line A-A of FIG. 35 within the ODS nozzle 82 .
  • the air inlet 86 can also be adjustable so that the air fuel combination is appropriate for the particular type of fuel used.
  • the electrode 80 can be used to ignite fuel exiting the ODS nozzle 82 .
  • a user can activate the electrode 80 by depressing the igniter switch 186 (see FIG. 2 ).
  • the electrode can comprise any suitable device for creating a spark to ignite a combustible fuel.
  • the electrode is a piezoelectric igniter. Igniting the fluid flowing through the nozzle 82 can create a pilot flame. In preferred embodiments, the nozzle 82 directs the pilot flame toward the thermocouple such that the thermocouple is heated by the flame, which permits fuel to flow through the control valve 130 .
  • the ODS 180 provides a steady pilot flame that heats the thermocouple 182 unless the oxygen level in the ambient air drops below a threshold level.
  • the threshold oxygen level is between about 18 percent and about 18.5 percent.
  • the pilot flame moves away from the thermocouple, the thermocouple cools, and the control valve 130 closes, thereby cutting off the fuel supply to the heater.
  • FIGS. 36A-38B show various additional embodiments of an ODS.
  • the ODS can include or can be connected to a valve.
  • the valve can be user selectable or pressure selectable.
  • FIGS. 36A-B illustrate an ODS 180 ′ connected to a pressure selectable valve 110 ′ similar to that shown in FIGS. 6-7C .
  • Any of the pressure selectable valves shown here connected to an ODS can also be used to connect to a pressure regulator or other component of a heating assembly.
  • other types of user selectable or pressure selectable valves can also be connected to an ODS.
  • the ODS 180 ′ can include a thermocouple 182 , an electrode 80 , a mounting bracket 92 , and an ODS nozzle 82 ′.
  • the ODS nozzle 82 ′ can include injectors 84 A, 84 B and air inlets 86 A, 86 B.
  • the injectors can each have an exit orifice 94 A, 94 B.
  • the exit orifices 94 A, 94 B can the same or different sizes.
  • the air inlets 86 A, 86 B can also be the same or different sizes, and in some embodiments are adjustable.
  • the valve 110 ′ can be similar to those described herein, such as that in FIGS. 6-7C .
  • the valve 110 ′ can allow for at least two different flow paths through the valve depending on the pressure of the flow.
  • the valve 110 ′ can include a main housing 24 , a fuel source connection or inlet 26 , valves 12 ′′, 14 ′′, biasing members 32 , 34 , front portions 30 ′′, 40 ′′ and rear portions 36 ′′, 38 ′′.
  • a first flow path is shown indicated by the arrows.
  • Fuel at a first pressure can then pass through valve 14 ′′ into injector 84 B and thereby fuel can flow through the ODS.
  • the fuel at the first pressure can also cause valve 14 ′′ to open, while valve 12 ′′ remains closed to allow the fuel to flow through the valve 110 ′.
  • Valve 12 ′′ can be opened by the higher pressure fuel which can then direct the flow to injector 84 A and thereby higher pressure fuel can flow through the ODS.
  • the ODS can have one outlet 95 ( FIGS. 36A-B ), or two outlets 95 ( FIGS. 37A-38B ). The outlets can direct fuel towards the thermocouple.
  • the outlets can be located the same or different distances away from the thermocouple.
  • the ODS can include one or more thermocouples 182 and igniters 80 .
  • the ODS can have one or more flame directors 97 . The flame directors 97 can be used to position the flame in a predetermined relationship to the thermocouple. Further, the embodiments shown in FIGS. 37A-B and FIGS. 38A-B including at least some of these features will be understood as functioning in a similar manner to the description of FIGS. 36A-B .
  • a filter 96 can be included anywhere along the fuel flow path within the heating assembly. As shown in FIGS. 36B , 37 B and 38 B, a filter 96 is within the injectors 84 A, 84 B. The filter can filter out impurities in the fuel flow.
  • the valve 110 ′ can allow for calibration of the valves 12 ′′, 14 ′′ from outside the housing.
  • the front portions 30 ′′, 40 ′′ can pass through the housing 24 and can include a detent 90 ′.
  • the detent can be used to adjust the position of the front portion within the valve 110 ′.
  • the detent 90 ′ can receive the head of a screw driver, Allen wrench or other tool to adjust the position of the front portion.
  • FIGS. 41A-B another embodiment of a pressure selectable valve 110 ′′ is shown which can be used with an ODS, a pressure regulator, or other components of a heating assembly. Except where described as operating in a different manner, the embodiments of FIGS. 41A-B are understood to function the same as or substantially similar to the embodiments illustrated by FIGS. 35-38B and to allow for the specific features described with reference to FIGS. 35-38B .
  • the pressure selectable valve comprises an inlet 26 , a chamber 16 ′, a plurality of flow paths 45 A, B, a first exit orifice 94 A′, and a second exit orifice 94 B′.
  • the pressure selectable valve 110 ′′ has a first valve 73 A and a second valve 73 B.
  • the first valve 73 A is movable between a first position where the valve body 79 A is a first distance from the valve seat 77 A, and a second position where the valve body 79 A is a second distance from the valve seat 77 A, the second distance being less than the first distance.
  • the second valve 73 B is movable between a first position where the valve body 79 B is a first distance from the valve seat 77 B, and a second position where the valve body 79 B is a second distance from the valve seat 77 B, the second distance being greater than the first distance.
  • valve body 79 B In the first position, the valve body 79 B is desirably in contact with the valve seat 77 B (a closed position), substantially preventing any fluid flow into the second channel 50 B, while the valve body 79 A is desirably spaced from the valve seat 77 A (an open position) so as to allow fluid flow into the first channel 50 A.
  • valve body 79 B In the second position, the valve body 79 B is desirably spaced from the valve seat 77 B (an open position) so as to allow fluid flow into the second channel 50 B, while the valve body 79 A is desirably in contact with the valve seat 77 A (a closed position), substantially preventing any flow of fuel into the first channel 50 A.
  • valve bodies 79 A,B can comprise any structure that can substantially limit the flow of fuel through the channels, such as a gasket, o-ring, rubber stopper, etc.
  • FIG. 41A illustrates the first position of valves 73 A, B and
  • FIG. 41B illustrates the second position of valves 73 A, B.
  • the first and second valves 73 A, B are connected by means of a lever arm 75 that has a first portion extending through a section of the first valve 73 A and a second portion extending through a section of the second valve 73 B.
  • the lever arm is configured such that when the first valve moves from an open position to a closed position the lever arm will move the second valve from a closed position to an open position. When the first valve returns to an open position the lever arm will move the second valve to a closed position.
  • each valve as illustrated is translation along a single axis, but in other embodiments the valves can move from a closed position to an open position through translation along multiple axes, by rotating, or by some combination of translation and rotation.
  • connection between the valves need not be through a lever arm configured as described above but can desirably occur through any device or connection that moves the second valve to an open position when the first valve moves to a closed position, and then returns the second valve to a closed position when the first valve returns to an open position.
  • the connection can occur from a lever arm that does not extend through the valves but is instead affixed to the valves.
  • the valves can be directly connected to each other.
  • the pressure selectable valve 110 ′′ further comprises a biasing member 32 that exerts a force designed to keep the first valve 73 A in a closed position.
  • a biasing member 32 that exerts a force designed to keep the first valve 73 A in a closed position.
  • the pressure from the fuel applies a force against a diaphragm 146 or other structure directly or indirectly connected to the biasing member 32 .
  • the diaphragm or other structure can act as a spring force and in some embodiments it can serve as the biasing member. If the fuel is at a sufficient, designated pressure, it will keep the biasing member in a compressed state, the first valve 73 A open, and the second valve 73 B closed.
  • the pressure selectable valve 110 ′′ can be configured to operate at a designated pressure consistent with the fuels and operating pressures described above.
  • the pressure selector valve 110 ′′ can be incorporated into the heating assembly as illustrated in FIG. 43 .
  • FIG. 43 is substantially similar to the embodiment of FIG. 2 , with the exception that the ODS pipe 126 connects to the pressure selectable valve 110 ′′ before reaching the ODS 180 . Additionally, the ODS 180 contains two outlets 95 , as described in FIGS. 37A-38B .
  • the heating assembly can comprise two separate ODSs, one for each fuel line leading from the pressure selectable valve 110 ′′.
  • FIGS. 39A-B , 40 A-C, and 42 A-B three additional embodiments of a nozzle 160 are shown.
  • the nozzle 160 is a pressure sensitive nozzle similar to that described previously.
  • various features (such as the internal valve) of the nozzles 160 shown and described can also be used in other components, such as in fuel selector valves, and ODSs.
  • the nozzle 160 includes a front portion 30 ′′, a valve 12 ′′, a spring 32 ′, and a rear portion 36 ′, all of which can be positioned inside a nozzle body 62 .
  • the nozzle body 62 can be a single piece or a multi-piece body and can include a flange 68 and threads 70 .
  • the spring 32 ′ can be a single stage or a dual stage spring. As shown, the spring 32 ′ is a single stage spring and is configured to move from a first position to a second position at a set pressure. In the second position, the valve 12 ′′ can reduce or block flow through the nozzle 160 . As shown in FIG. 39B , flow through orifice 64 can be blocked by the valve 12 ′′, while one or more orifices 66 remain open. In this way, the nozzle can function in a manner similar to those previously described.
  • the valve 12 ′′ can have a passage 140 through which fluid, such as fuel, can pass.
  • the passage 140 can have an inlet 142 and an outlet 144 . As shown, there is one inlet 142 and two outlets 144 , though any number of inlets and outlets can be used.
  • the passage can be in central region or can direct fluid to or through a central region of the valve 12 ′′.
  • the valve 12 ′′ can also include a front ledge 43 ′′.
  • the front ledge 43 ′′ and the passage 140 can be used to direct all, or a substantial portion, of the fluid flow through the valve 12 ′′ and can increase the forces acting on the valve to reliably open and/or close the valve.
  • the valve 12 ′′′ also has a passage 140 with an inlet 142 and an outlet 144 .
  • the front ledge 43 ′′′ of the valve 12 ′′′ can be used to connect a diaphragm 146 and a diaphragm retainer 148 to the valve 12 ′′′.
  • the nozzle 160 can also include a washer 150 and a front portion 130 ′′′.
  • the diaphragm retainer can be force fit or otherwise secured onto the valve 12 ′′′. This can allow the diaphragm 146 , the diaphragm retainer 148 , and the valve 12 ′′′ to move together.
  • Other configurations to connect a diaphragm to the valve 12 ′′′ can also be used.
  • the front portion 130 ′′′ can secure the washer 150 and diaphragm 146 in place within the nozzle.
  • the front portion 30 ′′′ is not shown, but can be used to secure the washer 150 and diaphragm 146 in place at the location in the nozzle shown.
  • the diaphragm 146 can act as a spring force and in some embodiments can replace the spring 32 ′.
  • the spring 32 ′ can serve to return the diaphragm 146 to an initial position.
  • the diaphragm can be set to allow the valve 12 ′′′ to move at a set fluid pressure, such as at 8 inches water column, or other pressures as has been described herein with reference to other valves.
  • the diaphragm can be made from various materials including silicone and/or rubber.
  • FIG. 40C shows the valve 12 ′′′ in two different positions, such as at an initial position at a lower pressure and the second position at a higher pressure. At the higher pressure the hole 64 can be closed by the valve 12 ′′′.
  • the valves 12 ′′ and 12 ′′′ can advantageously have an increased surface area that is exposed to the fluid flowing through the nozzle. This increased exposure can lead to increased repeatability and reliability of the nozzle under different flow circumstances.
  • the increased surface area can help ensure that the valve sealingly closes the hole 64 . Having the fluid flow through the valve and in particular, flow through the central region of the valve can focus the fluid pressure in the center of the valve. As the hole 64 is aligned with the center of the valve focusing the fluid pressure at the center of the valve can increase the reliability of the valve, sealing the hole at increased pressures.
  • the diaphragm has the added benefit of regulating the gas pressure similar to a typical pressure regulator. This can beneficially provide additional fluid pressure regulation throughout a heater system.
  • a fuel selector valve and/or an ODS can also have a valve with a passage therethrough and/or a diaphragm.
  • FIGS. 42A-B show yet another variation of the nozzle 160 .
  • the nozzle has a first flow path 55 through a first channel 51 and out one or more orifices 64 .
  • the first flow path 55 remains continuously open.
  • the nozzle also has a second flow path 57 that passes through a second channel 53 and out one or more orifices 66 .
  • the first channel 51 and second channel 53 can comprise a tube, pipe, or any structure or combination of structures that define a space in which a fluid can flow.
  • the second flow path 57 can be substantially blocked by a valve body 12 ′′′′.
  • the valve body 12 ′′′′ can be connected to a diaphragm 146 , a diaphragm retainer, and/or a biasing member 32 such that the valve body 12 ′′′′ moves with the diaphragm 146 , diaphragm retainer, and/or a biasing member 32 , as described above.
  • the nozzle comprises a valve seat 48 ′ against which the valve body 12 ′′′′ can seat, substantially closing access to the second channel 53 .
  • the valve body has a beveled portion 47 that seats against the valve seat 48 ′.
  • valve body 12 ′′′′ can be any shape that can mate with a portion of the nozzle to substantially block the second flow path 57 .
  • the valve body 12 ′′′′ can comprise a ledge portion as in FIGS. 7A-C .
  • FIG. 42A illustrates an embodiment where the fuel entering the inlet is at a pressure sufficient to compress the biasing member, seating the valve body 12 ′′′′ against the valve seat 48 ′ and substantially closing access to the second channel 53 .
  • fuel will only be able to exit the nozzle by flowing along the first flow path, through the first channel 51 and out of the orifice 64 .
  • the pressure needed to close the second channel 53 can be set at 8 inches water column, or other pressures as has been described herein with reference to other valves.
  • FIG. 42B illustrates an embodiment where the fuel entering the inlet is at a pressure that fails to compress the biasing member 32 to a point where the beveled portion 47 seats against the valve seat 48 ′ and closes access to the second channel 53 .
  • the biasing member at this lower pressure maintains the valve body 12 ′′′′ open and fuel will flow along both flow paths 55 , 57 and out the nozzle 160 through the orifices 64 , 66 .
  • the valve body 12 ′′′′ can be in a position close enough to the valve seat 48 ′ such that fluid flow along the second flow path 57 is restricted but access to the channel 53 is not substantially closed.
  • the valve body 12 ′′′′ can have a first position at a first fluid pressure and a second position at a second, higher fluid pressure such that there is a greater fluid flow along the second flow path 57 in the first position than in the second position.
  • FIGS. 42A-B are included within a single housing, but in other embodiments the second channel, the first channel, or both can be partially or completely outside of a housing.
  • FIG. 44A illustrates a schematic representation of the flow of fuel in some embodiments of a dual fuel heating system.
  • the fuel can travel from the regulator to the control or gas valve, where it splits into two paths.
  • the first path 126 heads toward the pressure selector valve, where a first fuel continues along a first line 99 A and a second fuel continues along a second line 99 B.
  • the two lines either head to a single ODS or pilot with separate fuel outlets as described with reference to FIGS. 37A-38B , or to two separate ODS or pilots, one for a first fuel and one for a second fuel.
  • the second path 124 from the control valve heads toward a pressure orifice or nozzle, which adjusts its output to the burner based on the pressure of the fuel as described in other embodiments above.
  • the fuel can flow from the regulator into multiple gas valves, each of which lead to a pressure orifice or nozzle and then to a burner.
  • This configuration illustrates embodiments where the gas is used to fuel multiple burners, such as ovens, stoves, barbecue grills, etc.
  • FIGS. 45-47B illustrate one embodiment of a heating assembly that can be used with dual fuel (e.g., natural gas and liquid propane) systems as described above.
  • the heating assembly can be used with heating systems and/or systems with burners, such as ovens, stoves, barbecue grills, etc. but, may also be used in other types of heating systems.
  • burners such as ovens, stoves, barbecue grills, etc.
  • the heating assembly 210 is similar in some ways to the nozzle assembly 160 described with respect to FIGS. 42A-B , as well as, certain other embodiments described herein.
  • FIG. 45 illustrates a perspective view of the heating assembly 210 .
  • the heating assembly can include an inlet 226 (better viewed in FIGS. 46A-47B ) adapted to receive a fluid flow, such as from a fuel line.
  • the heating assembly 210 can include a solenoid valve 270 , which can be activated to block a fluid from passing further into the heating assembly 210 .
  • the heating assembly 210 can also include a pressure selector valve 250 , which can be configured to selectively block a fluid flow depending on its pressure.
  • the heating assembly 210 can also include a control valve 230 with a control valve actuator 236 , which can be used to adjust the amount of fluid flowing through the heating assembly 210 .
  • the illustrated embodiment includes the solenoid valve, the pressure selector valve, and the control valve within a single housing of the heating assembly 210 .
  • the solenoid valve, the pressure selector valve, and/or the control valve can be in one or more independent housings that are in fluid communication with each other.
  • the heating assembly 210 may lack one or more of the solenoid valve, the pressure selector valve, and the control valve and/or may also include additional components such as an igniter.
  • the heating assembly 210 can also include nozzle assembly with a first outlet 225 and a second outlet 227 . Each outlet can have one or more outlet holes or orifices 264 .
  • the heating assembly 210 is configured such that when a first fluid is introduced through the inlet 226 the first fluid exits through both the first outlet 225 and the second outlet 227 .
  • a second fluid, flowing at a different pressure, introduced through the inlet 226 can exit through only a single outlet (e.g., first outlet 225 ).
  • the heating assembly 210 is configured to operate with a first fluid being natural gas and a second fluid being liquid propane. The first and second outlets can be the same or different sizes.
  • FIGS. 46A-47B illustrate cross sectional views of the heating assembly 210 taken along line 46 A of FIG. 45 .
  • FIGS. 47A and 47B illustrate the control valve 230 in a first position in use with a first fluid ( FIG. 46A ) and a second fluid at a different pressure ( FIG. 46B ).
  • FIGS. 47A and 47B illustrate the control valve 230 in the second position in use with the respective fluids at different pressures.
  • solenoid valve 270 can include a solenoid valve body 272 , shown schematically.
  • the solenoid valve as illustrated is in an open position, allowing fluid entering the inlet 226 to flow past the solenoid valve body.
  • the solenoid valve body can move to a closed position, wherein a projecting or angled portion 274 of the solenoid valve body can contact a solenoid valve seat, blocking further flow of fluid past the solenoid valve body, and thereby preventing fluid from passing through the first outlet 225 or the second outlet 227 .
  • the solenoid valve 270 can be electrically coupled to a thermocouple, thermister, etc., to maintain the valve in an open position when the thermocouple, thermister, etc. is heated.
  • first fluid flows past the solenoid valve, it can continue along a first flow path 245 A, into the control valve body 234 , out through a first control valve orifice 238 A in the first flow path 245 A, and out the first outlet 225 .
  • the fluid can also flow along a second flow path 245 B, through the pressure selector valve 250 , through a second orifice 238 B in the second flow path 245 B, through a third orifice 238 C in the second flow path 245 B, and through the second outlet 227 .
  • the order and arrangement of valves can vary from the illustrated arrangement.
  • the pressure selector valve 250 generally operates like similar valves described above, such as the valve described with respect to FIGS. 42A and 42B .
  • the pressure selector valve can have a valve body 212 that can connect to and move with a diaphragm 256 , a diaphragm retainer 258 , and/or a biasing member 252 .
  • the valve body 212 is preferably biased toward an open position, as illustrated, allowing the first fluid at the first pressure to flow through the pressure selector valve 250 .
  • Increased fluid pressures will cause the diaphragm to experience a force tending to move the valve body 212 toward a closed position, as illustrated in FIG. 46B .
  • FIG. 46B illustrates the heating assembly 210 when used with a second fluid.
  • the second fluid preferably operates at a pressure greater than the first fluid, and the pressure can be sufficient to move the pressure selector valve body 212 to seat against a valve seat 259 , substantially blocking further fluid flow.
  • the pressure selector valve body 212 may include a projection or beveled surface 257 that can seat against the valve seat 259 .
  • the pressure selector valve is configured such that it is in an open position with a first fuel of natural gas, and in a closed position with a second fuel of liquid propane. With both a first fuel and a second fuel the first flow path 245 A can remain open.
  • the heating assembly 210 can also be reversed, such that for example, the pressure selector valve 250 can have an initially closed position.
  • FIGS. 46A and 46B also illustrate the control valve 230 in a first, high flow position, in which at least one of orifices 238 A, B, C can be larger than in a second, low flow position.
  • FIGS. 47A and 47B illustrate the control valve 230 in the second position.
  • the control valve 230 can have a number of set orifice sizes, or it can have continuously variable slots to allow for more adjustable flow.
  • FIG. 47A illustrates the control valve in the second position with the pressure selector valve 250 in an open position.
  • FIG. 47B illustrates the control valve in the second position with the pressure selector valve 250 in a closed position.
  • control valve actuator can be rotated, which can rotate a control valve shaft 232 and the control valve body 234 .
  • Different arrangements and connecting elements can be used to translate actuator rotation to valve body rotation.
  • the control valve actuator 236 can have a knob or other control feature, such as those described with respect to FIGS. 25A-C .
  • one or more of the orifices 238 A, B, C can be smaller than in the first position of the control valve.
  • the first orifice 238 A can be the same size as the second orifice 238 B and third orifice 238 C, when the control valve is in the first position and/or the second position.
  • the first orifice 238 A can be a different size from the second orifice 238 B and/or the third orifice 238 C, when the control valve is in the first position and/or the second position.
  • the second orifice 238 B and the third orifice 238 C can be approximately the same size when the control valve is in the first position.
  • the second orifice 238 B and the third orifice 238 C can be approximately the same size when the control valve is in the second position, in which both the second orifice 238 B and the third orifice 238 C are smaller than in the first position.
  • the second orifice 238 B can be of a different size than third orifice 238 C when the control valve is in the second position.
  • one or more of the orifices 238 A, B, C can be the same size in both the first and second positions of the control valve.
  • the control valve body 234 can have various configurations, as described with respect to FIG. 25B .
  • one or more of the orifices 238 A, B, C can be holes of varying sizes. By rotating from the first position to the second position the valve body rotates from a position with larger holes aligned with the flow paths 245 A, B to a position with smaller holes aligned with the flow paths.
  • one or more of the orifices can be a hole or slot that changes in size around the control valve body.
  • the control valve body can have a first, high flow position; a second, low flow position; and a variety of flow positions between the first and second positions.
  • FIGS. 48A-50B illustrate another embodiment of a heating assembly 210 ′ that can be used with dual fuels.
  • Numerical reference to components is the same as previously described, except that a prime symbol (′) has been added to the reference. Where such references occur, it is to be understood that the components are the same or substantially similar to previously-described components.
  • the illustrated heating assembly can have many of the same components of the heating assembly described with respect to FIGS. 45-47B , and where not described differently those components are understood to operate as previously described.
  • the heating assembly 210 ′ can have a first outlet 225 ′ and a second outlet 227 ′, each with an outlet hole or orifice 264 ′.
  • a pressure selector valve 250 ′ can help determine the flow paths of different fluids/fuels, such that a first fluid may exit through the first outlet 225 ′ and second outlet 227 ′, and a second fluid may exit only through the first outlet 225 ′.
  • the heating assembly 210 ′ can also have a control valve 230 ′.
  • the illustrated embodiment does not have a solenoid valve, but in some embodiments it may.
  • FIGS. 48A and 48B also illustrate an embodiment of a heating assembly with an additional flow path that leads to a nozzle 282 .
  • An electrode 280 can be positioned proximate the nozzle and can be used to ignite fuel exiting from the nozzle.
  • this arrangement can include a thermocouple (not illustrated) so that the system can act as a pilot or as an ODS, as described above.
  • FIGS. 49A and 49B show the heating assembly 210 ′ in use with the second fluid, such as liquid propane.
  • FIG. 49A illustrates the high position and FIG. 49B shows the low position.
  • FIGS. 50A and 50B show the heating assembly 210 ′ in use with the first fluid, such as natural gas.
  • FIG. 50A illustrates the high position and FIG. 50B shows the low position.
  • the orifices 238 A′, 238 B′, 238 C′ can be larger than it is when the heating assembly is in the low position.
  • one or more of the orifices can be a hole or slot that changes in size around the control valve, and the control valve can have a high position, a low position, and a plurality of flow positions between the high and low positions.
  • certain embodiments of the heating assembly as described herein facilitate a single appliance unit being efficaciously used with different fuel sources. This desirably saves on inventory costs, offers a retailer or store to stock and provide a single unit that is usable with more than one fuel source, and permits customers the convenience of readily obtaining a unit which operates with the fuel source of their choice.
  • certain embodiments of the heating assembly can transition between the different operating configurations as desired with relative ease and without or with little adjustment by an installer and/or an end user.
  • a user does not need to make a fuel selection through any type of control or adjustment.
  • the systems described herein can alleviate many of the different adjustments and changes required to change from one fuel to another in many prior art heating sources.
  • the embodiments and components described herein can be used with, without and/or instead of other embodiments and components as described herein or otherwise.
  • the fuel selector valve described herein can be connected to the regulator 120 of the heater 100 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 .

Abstract

A heating system can include certain pressure sensitive features. These features can be configured to change from a first position to a second position based on a pressure of a fuel flowing into the feature. These features can include, fuel selector valves, pressure regulators, burner nozzles, and oxygen depletion sensor nozzles, among other features.

Description

    CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
  • Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic priority claim is identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed with the present application, are hereby incorporated by reference under 37 CFR 1.57. This application claims priority to Chinese Pat. Appl. Nos. 201210223977.0, 201220314766.3, 201210224414.3, 201220315268.0 all filed Jul. 2, 2012; this application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/310,664 (PROCUSA.088A), filed Dec. 2, 2011, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/473,714 (PROCUSA.070PR4), filed Apr. 8, 2011, and Chinese Pat. Appl. No. 201120401676.3, filed Oct. 20, 2011; this application also claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/748,052 (PROCUSA.088PR), filed Dec. 31, 2012. The entire contents of all of the above applications are hereby incorporated by reference and made a part of this specification.
  • BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  • 1. Field of the Invention
  • Certain embodiments disclosed herein relate generally to a heating source for use in a gas appliance. Aspects of certain embodiments may be particularly adapted for single fuel, dual fuel or multi-fuel use. The gas appliance can include, but is not limited to: heaters, boilers, dryers, washing machines, ovens, fireplaces, stoves, etc.
  • 2. Description of the Related Art
  • Many varieties of heating sources, such as heaters, boilers, dryers, washing machines, ovens, fireplaces, stoves, and other heat-producing devices utilize pressurized, combustible fuels. However, such devices and certain components thereof have various limitations and disadvantages.
  • SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
  • According to some embodiments a heating system can include any number of different components such as a fuel selector valve, a pressure regulator, a control valve, a burner nozzle, a burner, and/or an oxygen depletion sensor. In addition, a heating system can be a single fuel, dual fuel or multi-fuel heating system. For example, the heating system can be configured to be used with one or more of natural gas, liquid propane, well gas, city gas, and methane.
  • In some embodiments, a fuel selector valve can comprise a housing having an inlet, an outlet, a first flow path therethrough and a second flow path therethrough different from the first flow path; at least one pressure sensitive gate within the housing, wherein the at least one pressure sensitive gate is configured to be open when a fluid within a first pressure range is flowing through the fuel selector valve and closed when a fluid within a second pressure range, different from the first, is flowing through the fuel selector valve, wherein the flow of fluid acts on the gate to either open or close the gate; wherein the fuel selector valve is configured such that when the gate is open, fluid flows through the first flow path and when the gate is closed, fluid flows through the second flow path.
  • In some embodiments, the heating system can comprise a burner and a burner nozzle, the burner nozzle comprising at least one inlet, at least one first outlet, and at least one second outlet. The heating system can also comprise a first flow path from a fuel line to the first outlet and a second flow path from the fuel line to the second outlet. The second flow path can include a movable body having a first position in which the second flow path is substantially closed, the flow through the second outlet is substantially close to zero, and the flow through the burner nozzle is less than in a second position. The movement of the movable body between the first and second positions can be controlled by the pressure of a fluid flowing through the burner nozzle.
  • In some embodiments, the heating system can further include a control valve positioned within the first and/or second flow path, wherein the control valve has a first position configured to allow a first flow of fuel through the first and/or second flow path and a second position configured to allow a second flow of fuel through the first and/or second flow path. The second flow of fuel can be less than the first flow of fluid.
  • Certain embodiments of a heating system can comprise a burner and a burner valve, the burner valve comprising at least one inlet, at least one first outlet, and at least one second outlet. The heating system can also comprise a control valve having a first position that allows a first flow of fuel through a control valve body and a second position that allows a second flow of fuel through the control valve body. The heating system can also comprise a first flow path from a fuel line through the at least one inlet, the control valve body, and the at least one first outlet; and a second flow path from the fuel line through the at least one inlet, the control valve body, and the at least one second outlet. The second flow path can include a movable body positioned at least partially within the second flow path and having a first position in which the second flow path is substantially closed, the flow through the second outlet is substantially close to zero, and the flow through the burner valve is less than in a second position. The movement of the movable body between the first and second positions can be controlled by the pressure of a fluid flowing through the burner valve.
  • A dual fuel heating system according to some embodiments can include a nozzle comprising at least one inlet, at least one first outlet, and at least one second outlet; a first flow path from a fuel line to the at least one first outlet; a second flow path from the fuel line to the at least one second outlet; and a movable body positioned at least partially within the second flow path. In a first position of the movable body, the second flow path can be substantially closed by the movable body, the amount of flow through the at least one second outlet is substantially close to zero, and the amount of flow through the nozzle is less than in a second position. The movable body can be configured such that movement between the first and second positions is controlled by a pressure of a fluid flowing through the nozzle and/or system.
  • In some embodiments, the dual fuel heating system can also include a control valve positioned within the first flow path. The control valve can have a first position configured to allow a first flow of fuel through the first flow path and a second position configured to allow a second flow of fuel through the first flow path, wherein the second flow of fuel is less than the first flow of fuel. The control valve may also be positioned within the second flow path and the first position is further configured to allow a third flow of fuel through the second flow path and the second position is further configured to allow a fourth flow of fuel through the second flow path, wherein the fourth flow of fuel is less than the third flow of fuel.
  • According to some embodiments, a dual fuel heating assembly can comprise a nozzle housing comprising an inlet, at least one first outlet, and at least one second outlet. A first fluid pathway extends between the inlet and the at least one first outlet, and a second fluid pathway extends between the inlet and the at least one second outlet. A pressure controlled valve can be positioned within the second fluid pathway, the valve having an open and a closed position, the valve configured such that the valve position is based on a fluid pressure of fluid flowing through the second fluid pathway to either allow or prevent fluid flow to the at least one second outlet.
  • The dual fuel heating assembly may include one or more of the following. The pressure controlled valve can comprise a spring and a diaphragm, wherein the fluid pressure acts on the diaphragm to determine whether the valve is in the open or closed position. A flow control valve can be positioned within at least one of the first and second fluid pathways, wherein the flow control valve is configured to control a size of the fluid pathway. The flow control valve can be a rotatable valve. The flow control valve can be positioned within both the first and second fluid pathways. The pressure controlled valve can be part of the nozzle housing.
  • In some embodiments, a dual fuel heating assembly can comprise a nozzle, a control valve and a movable body. The nozzle can include at least one inlet, at least one first outlet, and at least one second outlet. A first flow path can extend from a fuel line through the at least one inlet and the at least one first outlet. A second flow path can extend from the fuel line through the at least one inlet and the at least one second outlet. The control valve can have a first position that allows a first flow of fuel through a control valve body and a second position that allows a second flow of fuel through the control valve body, the control valve positioned in at least one of the first flow path and the second flow path. The movable body can be positioned at least partially within the second flow path. Wherein in a first position of the movable body, the second flow path is substantially closed by the movable body, the amount of flow through the at least one second outlet is substantially close to zero, and the amount of flow through the burner valve is less than in a second position. Wherein the movable body is configured such that movement between the first and second positions is controlled by a pressure of a fluid flowing to the nozzle. In further embodiments, the control valve is positioned in both the first flow path and the second flow path.
  • Certain embodiments of a heating system can comprise a burner and a burner nozzle. The burner nozzle can include a housing defining an inlet, an outlet and an inner chamber between the inlet and the outlet; a movable body within the inner chamber; and a biasing member. The biasing member can be configured to regulate a positional relationship between the body and a wall of the inner chamber in response to a pressure of a fluid flow, flowing through the burner nozzle. According to some embodiments, in a first position of the movable body within the inner chamber, the amount of flow allowed through the burner nozzle is more than in a second position and the movable body can be configured such that movement between the first and second positions is controlled by the pressure of the fluid flow acting on the biasing member.
  • According to certain embodiments, the pressure of the flow can act on the biasing member through contact with the movable body. In the second position of some embodiments, the movable body can be configured to sealingly connect to the outlet. The movable body may further comprise a channel passing therethrough. In addition, the burner nozzle may further comprise a second outlet, and when the movable body is in the second position fluid flow can be prevented through the second outlet. In some embodiments, the burner nozzle can further include a second outlet, and when the movable body is in the second position flow of fluid is prevented through either of the outlet or the second outlet.
  • In some embodiments, a heating system can include a burner, a nozzle and a biasing member. The nozzle can have a nozzle housing, an inlet, an outlet and a valve body within the nozzle housing and between the inlet and the outlet. The valve body and biasing member can be configured such that fluid flow of a predetermined pressure acts on the valve body to at least one of 1) move, 2) open, and 3) close the valve body within the nozzle housing to control fluid flow through the nozzle.
  • In some embodiments, the heating system can also include an end cap within the outlet of the nozzle housing. The end cap can have a first end configured to be manipulated so as to adjust the position of the end cap within the outlet and at least one orifice passing through the end cap. The nozzle housing can be configured such that when the valve body is in an open position, fluid flows through the nozzle entering at the inlet and exiting at the outlet through the at least one orifice. The nozzle can be configured such that adjusting the position of the end cap adjusts at least one of the predetermined pressure required to 1) move, 2) open, and 3) close the valve body within the nozzle housing.
  • Many different types of end caps can be used. For example, the biasing member can be between the end cap and the valve body, the end cap configured to calibrate the nozzle to adjust the pressure required to move the valve body to an open position. In some examples, the end cap is a set screw. Also, the end of the end cap can cooperate with a tool to adjust the position of the end cap relative to the valve body. This end of the end cap can include a detent. The end cap can be adjusted from outside of the nozzle. The end cap can also include an orifice and/or the at least one orifice.
  • In some embodiments a heating system can comprise an oxygen depletion sensor (ODS). An ODS can include an igniter, an inlet, an outlet, a first injector, a second injector, a first valve body and a first biasing member to control flow of fuel from the inlet to the first injector and a second valve body and a second biasing member to control flow of fuel from the inlet to the second injector. There maybe one or two, or more inlets and outlets. At a first predetermined fluid pressure the first valve can be open and the second valve can be closed and at a second predetermined fluid pressure, greater than the first, the first valve can be closed by the second predetermined fluid pressure acting on the first valve and the second valve can be opened by the second predetermined fluid pressure acting on the second valve.
  • The valves can be set such that the first biasing member is configured to open the first valve by the first predetermined fluid pressure acting on the first valve, the first predetermined fluid pressure being insufficient to open the second valve.
  • In some embodiments, an ODS can comprise a housing having a single inlet and a single outlet, and having a first fluid flow path and a second fluid flow path through the housing between the inlet and the outlet; a first air intake; a second air intake; a first injector within the housing and defining part of the first fluid flow path, the first injector comprising a first orifice, the first orifice configured to direct a first fuel from the inlet and towards the outlet while drawing air into the housing through the first air intake; a second injector within the housing and defining part of the second fluid flow path, the second injector comprising a second orifice, second first orifice configured to direct a second fuel from the inlet and towards the outlet while drawing air into the housing through the second air intake, wherein the first fuel is at a pressure different from the second fuel; a first valve within the housing and defining part of the first fluid flow path, the first valve configured to control the flow of fuel to the first injector; and a second valve within the housing and defining part of the second fluid flow path, the second valve configured to control the flow of fuel to the second injector.
  • According to some embodiments, a heating system can have a burner, a control valve, and a nozzle. The control valve can include a control valve housing, an input, an output and a first valve body within the control valve housing configured such that the position of the first valve body within the control valve housing determines whether the input is in fluid communication with the output and how much fluid can flow therebetween.
  • A nozzle in some embodiments can include a nozzle housing, a second valve within the nozzle housing, an inlet, at least two outlets, and a biasing member configured such that the second valve is open during fluid flow of a first predetermined pressure, and fluid flow of a second predetermined pressure causes the second valve to close one of the at least two outlets while one of the at least two outlets remains open.
  • BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
  • Various embodiments are depicted in the accompanying drawings for illustrative purposes, and should in no way be interpreted as limiting the scope of the inventions, in which like reference characters denote corresponding features consistently throughout similar embodiments.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective cutaway view of a portion of one embodiment of a heater configured to operate using either a first fuel source or a second fuel source.
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective cutaway view of the heater of FIG. 1.
  • FIGS. 3A-C show some of the various possible combinations of components of a heating assembly 10. FIG. 3A illustrates a dual fuel heating assembly.
  • FIG. 3B shows another dual fuel heating assembly. FIG. 3C illustrates an unregulated heating assembly.
  • FIGS. 4A-B illustrate an embodiment of a heating assembly in schematic, showing a first configuration for liquid propane and a second configuration for natural gas.
  • FIG. 5 is a chart showing typical gas pressures of different fuels.
  • FIG. 6 is an exploded view of an embodiment of a fuel selector valve.
  • FIGS. 7A-C are cross-sectional views of the fuel selector valve of FIG. 6 in first, second and third positions, respectively.
  • FIG. 8A is a side view of an embodiment of a fuel selector valve and pressure regulator.
  • FIG. 8B is a cross-section of the fuel selector valve and pressure regulator of FIG. 8A.
  • FIGS. 9A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a fuel selector valve in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 10A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a fuel selector valve in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 11A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a fuel selector valve in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 12A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a fuel selector valve in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 13A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a fuel selector valve in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 14A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a fuel selector valve in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 15A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a fuel selector valve in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 16A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a fuel selector valve in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 17A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a fuel selector valve in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 18A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a fuel selector valve in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 19A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a fuel selector valve in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 20A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a fuel selector valve in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 21A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a fuel selector valve in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 22A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a fuel selector valve in a first position and a second position.
  • FIG. 23 shows an exploded view of an embodiment of a nozzle.
  • FIGS. 23A-C are sectional views of the nozzle of FIG. 23 in first, second and third positions, respectively.
  • FIGS. 24A-B illustrate different configurations for an end of a nozzle.
  • FIG. 25A shows the nozzle of FIG. 23 and a control valve.
  • FIG. 25B illustrates the nozzle separated from the control valve of FIG. 25A, where control valve is shown in an exploded view including two possible internal valve bodies.
  • FIG. 25C is a cross-sectional view of the nozzle and control valve of FIG. 25A.
  • FIGS. 26A-B show perspective and top views respectively of a barbeque grill.
  • FIGS. 27A-B show perspective and bottom views respectively of a stove top.
  • FIGS. 28A-B are sectional views of an embodiment of a nozzle in first and second positions, respectively.
  • FIGS. 29A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a nozzle in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 30A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a nozzle in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 31A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a nozzle in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 32A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a nozzle in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 33A-D are sectional views of an embodiment of a nozzle in first, second, third and fourth positions, respectively.
  • FIGS. 34A-B show perspective and cross sectional views of a nozzle.
  • FIG. 35 shows an embodiment of an oxygen depletion sensor.
  • FIGS. 36A-B show perspective and cross sectional views of an oxygen depletion sensor.
  • FIGS. 37A-B show perspective and cross sectional views of an oxygen depletion sensor.
  • FIGS. 38A-B show perspective and cross sectional views of an oxygen depletion sensor.
  • FIG. 39A illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of a nozzle.
  • FIG. 39B shows a partial cross section of the nozzle of FIG. 39A.
  • FIG. 40A illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of a nozzle.
  • FIG. 40B is a partial cross section of the nozzle of FIG. 40A
  • FIG. 40C shows the nozzle of FIG. 40A in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 41A-B are sectional views of a pressure selectable valve in a first position and a second position.
  • FIGS. 42A-B are sectional views of a nozzle in a first position and a second position.
  • FIG. 43 is a perspective cutaway view of a heater.
  • FIG. 44A shows a possible combination of components of a heating assembly.
  • FIG. 44B shows a possible combination of components of a heating assembly.
  • FIG. 45 shows a perspective view of a heating assembly.
  • FIG. 46A shows a sectional view of the heating assembly of FIG. 45 taken along line 46A-46A, with a pressure selectable valve in a first position and a control valve in a first position.
  • FIG. 46B shows a sectional view of the heating assembly of FIG. 45 taken along line 46A-46A, with a pressure selectable valve in a second position and a control valve in a first position.
  • FIG. 47A shows a sectional view of the heating assembly of FIG. 45 taken along line 46A-46A, with a pressure selectable valve in a first position and a control valve in a second position.
  • FIG. 47B shows a sectional view of the heating assembly of FIG. 45 taken along line 46A-46A, with a pressure selectable valve in a first position and a control valve in a second position.
  • FIG. 48A shows a front perspective view of a heating assembly.
  • FIG. 48B shows a rear perspective view of the heating assembly of FIG. 48A.
  • FIGS. 49A and 49B are cross-sectional views of the heating assembly of FIGS. 48A-48B.
  • FIGS. 50A and 50B are cross-sectional views of the heating assembly of FIGS. 48A-48B.
  • DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
  • Many varieties of space heaters, wall heaters, stoves, fireplaces, fireplace inserts, gas logs, and other heat-producing devices employ combustible fluid fuels, such as liquid propane and natural gas. The term “fluid,” as used herein, is a broad term used in its ordinary sense, and includes materials or substances capable of fluid flow, such as, for example, one or more gases, one or more liquids, or any combination thereof. Fluid-fueled units, such as those listed above, generally are designed to operate with a single fluid fuel type at a specific pressure or within a range of pressures. For example, some fluid-fueled heaters that are configured to be installed on a wall or a floor operate with natural gas at a pressure in a range from about 3 inches of water column to about 6 inches of water column, while others are configured to operate with liquid propane at a pressure in a range from about 8 inches of water column to about 12 inches of water column. Similarly, some gas fireplaces and gas logs are configured to operate with natural gas at a first pressure, while others are configured to operate with liquid propane at a second pressure that is different from the first pressure. As used herein, the terms “first” and “second” are used for convenience, and do not connote a hierarchical relationship among the items so identified, unless otherwise indicated.
  • Certain advantageous embodiments disclosed herein reduce or eliminate various problems associated with devices having heating sources that operate with only a single type of fuel source. Furthermore, although certain of the embodiments described hereafter are presented in a particular context, the apparatus and devices disclosed and enabled herein can benefit a wide variety of other applications and appliances.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of a heater 100. The heater 100 can be a vent-free infrared heater, a vent-free blue flame heater, or some other variety of heater, such as a direct vent heater. Some embodiments include boilers, stoves, dryers, fireplaces, gas logs, etc. Other configurations are also possible for the heater 100. In many embodiments, the heater 100 is configured to be mounted to a wall or a floor or to otherwise rest in a substantially static position. In other embodiments, the heater 100 is configured to move within a limited range. In still other embodiments, the heater 100 is portable.
  • The heater 100 can comprise a housing 200. The housing 200 can include metal or some other suitable material for providing structure to the heater 100 without melting or otherwise deforming in a heated environment. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 200 comprises a window 220, one or more intake vents 240 and one or more outlet vents 260. Heated air and/or radiant energy can pass through the window 220. Air can flow into the heater 100 through the one or more intake vents 240 and heated air can flow out of the heater 100 through the outlet vents 260.
  • Within the housing 200, the heater 100, or other gas appliance, can include a heating assembly or heating source 10. A heating assembly 10 can include at least one or more of the components described herein.
  • With reference to FIG. 2, in certain embodiments, the heater 100 includes a regulator 120. The regulator 120 can be coupled with an output line or intake line, conduit, or pipe 122. The intake pipe 122 can be coupled with a main control valve 130, which, in some embodiments, includes a knob 132. As illustrated, the main control valve 130 is coupled to a fuel supply pipe 124 and an oxygen depletion sensor (ODS) pipe 126. The fuel supply pipe 124 can be coupled with a nozzle 160. The oxygen depletion sensor (ODS) pipe 126 can be coupled with an ODS 180. In some embodiments, the ODS comprises a thermocouple 182, which can be coupled with the main control valve 130, and an igniter line 184, which can be coupled with an igniter switch 186. Each of the pipes 122, 124, and 126 can define a fluid passageway or flow channel through which a fluid can move or flow.
  • In some embodiments, including the illustrated embodiment, the heater 100 comprises a burner 190. The ODS 180 can be mounted to the burner 190, as shown. The nozzle 160 can be positioned to discharge a fluid, which may be a gas, liquid, or combination thereof into the burner 190. For purposes of brevity, recitation of the term “gas or liquid” hereafter shall also include the possibility of a combination of a gas and a liquid.
  • Where the heater 100 is a dual fuel heater, either a first or a second fluid is introduced into the heater 100 through the regulator 120. Still referring to FIG. 2, the first or the second fluid proceeds from the regulator 120 through the intake pipe 122 to the main control valve 130. The control valve 130 can permit a portion of the first or the second fluid to flow into the fuel supply pipe 124 and permit another portion of the first or the second fluid to flow into the ODS pipe 126. From the control valve 130, the first or the second fluid can proceed through the fuel supply pipe 124, through the nozzle 160 and is delivered to the burner 190. In addition, a portion of the first or the second fluid can proceed through the ODS pipe 126 to the ODS 180. Other configurations are also possible.
  • FIGS. 3A-C show some of the various possible combinations of components of a heating assembly 10. Such heating assemblies can be made to be single fuel, dual fuel or multi-fuel gas appliances. For example, the heating assembly 10 can be made so that the installer of the gas appliance can connect the assembly to one of two fuels, such as either a supply of natural gas (NG) or a supply of propane (LP) and the assembly will desirably operate in the standard mode (with respect to efficiency and flame size and color) for either gas.
  • FIG. 3A illustrates a dual fuel system, such as a vent free heater. In some embodiments, a dual fuel heating assembly can include a fuel selector valve 110, a regulator 120, a control valve or gas valve 130, a nozzle 160, a burner 190 and an ODS 180. The arrows indicate the flow of fuel through the assembly. As can be seen in FIG. 3B, a dual fuel heating assembly, such as a regulated stove or grill, can have similar components to the heating assembly shown in FIG. 3A, but without the ODS. Still further heating assemblies, such as shown in FIG. 3C, may not have a fuel selector valve 110 or a regulator 120. This gas system is unregulated and can be an unregulated stove or grill, among other appliances. The unregulated system can be single fuel, dual fuel or multi-fuel. In some embodiments, and as described in more detail below, one or more of the fuel selector valve, ODS and nozzle, in these and in other embodiments can function in a pressure sensitive manner.
  • For example, turning to FIGS. 4A-B, a schematic representation of a heating assembly is shown first in a state for liquid propane (FIG. 4A) and second in a state for natural gas (FIG. 4B). Looking at the fuel selector valve 110, it can be seen that the pressure of the fluid flow through the valve 110 can cause the gate, valve or door 12, 14 to open or close, thus establishing or denying access to a channel 16, 18 and thereby to a pressure regulator 20, 22. The gate, valve or door 12, 14 can be biased to a particular position, such as being spring loaded to bias the gate 12 to the closed position and the gate 14 to the open position. In FIG. 4A, the gate 12 has been forced to open channel 16 and gate 14 has closed channel 18. This can provide access to a pressure regulator 20 configured to regulate liquid propane, for example. FIG. 4B shows the fuel selector valve 110 at a rest state where the pressure of the flow is not enough to change to state of the gates 12, 14 and channel 18 is open to provide access to pressure regulator 22, which can be configured to regulate natural gas, for example. As will be described herein after, the nozzle 160 and the ODS 180 can be configured to function in similar ways so that the pressure of the fluid flow can determine a path through the component. For example, the natural gas state (FIG. 4B) can allow more fluid flow than the liquid propane state (FIG. 4A) as represented by the arrows.
  • Different fuels are generally run at different pressures. FIG. 5 shows four different fuels: methane, city gas, natural gas and liquid propane; and the typical pressure range of each particular fuel. The typical pressure range can mean the typical pressure range of the fuel as provided by a container, a gas main, a gas pipe, etc. and for consumer use, such as the gas provided to an appliance. Thus, natural gas may be provided to a home gas oven within the range of 3 to 10 inches of water column. The natural gas can be provided to the oven through piping connected to a gas main. As another example, propane may be provided to a barbeque grill from a propane tank with the range of 8 to 14 inches of water column. The delivery pressure of any fuel may be further regulated to provide a more certain pressure range or may be unregulated. For example, the barbeque grill may have a pressure regulator so that the fuel is delivered to the burner within the range of 10 to 12 inches of water column rather than within the range of 8 to 14 inches of water column.
  • As shown in the chart, city gas can be a combination of one or more different gases. As an example, city gas can be the gas typically provided to houses and apartments in China, and certain other countries. At times, and from certain sources, the combination of gases in city gas can be different at any one given instant as compared to the next.
  • Because each fuel has a typical range of pressures that it is delivered at, these ranges can advantageously be used in a heating assembly to make certain selections in a pressure sensitive manner. Further, certain embodiments may include one or more pressure regulators and the pressure of the fluid flow downstream of the pressure regulator can be generally known so as to also be able to make certain selections or additional selections in a pressure sensitive manner.
  • FIG. 6 illustrates the components of an embodiment of a fuel selector valve 110. The fuel selector valve 110 can be for selecting between two different fuels. The fuel selector valve 110 can have a first mode configured to direct a flow of a first fuel (such as natural gas or NG) in a first path through the fuel selector valve and a second mode configured to direct a flow of a second fuel (such as liquid propane or LP) in a second path through the fuel selector valve. This can be done in many different ways such as the opening and/or closing of one or more valves, gates, or doors 12, 14 to establish various flow paths through the fuel selector valve 110. The opening and/or closing of one or more valves, gates, or doors can be performed in a pressure sensitive manner, as explained below.
  • As illustrated, the fuel selector valve 110 of FIGS. 6-8B includes a main housing 24, a fuel source connection 26, a gasket 28 and valves 12, 14. A heating assembly 10 can connect to a fuel source at the fuel source connection 26. The fuel source connection 26 can be threaded or otherwise configured to securely connect to a fuel source. The main housing 24 can define channels 16, 18 and the valves 12, 14 can reside within the channels 16, 18 in the main housing 24. The housing 24 can be a single piece or a multi-piece housing.
  • As will be shown hereafter, in the various embodiments, there can be one or more valves, gates, or doors 12, 14 that can function in different ways, as well as one or more channels 16, 18 within the housing 24. The gates, doors or valves 12, 14 can work in many different ways to open or close and to thereby establish or deny access to a channel 16, 18. The channels 16, 18 can direct fluid flow to an appropriate flow passage, such as to the appropriate pressure regulator 20, 22, if pressure regulators are included in the heating assembly (FIGS. 8A-B). For example, channel 16 can direct flow to a first inlet 23 on a regulator 120 that connects to pressure regulator 22 and channel 18 can direct flow to a second inlet 21 that connects to pressure regulator 20. Both pressure regulators 20, 22 can direct flow to the outlet 25. Though a regulator 120 is shown that combines the two pressure regulators 20, 22 into one housing other configurations are also possible.
  • The shown fuel selector valve 110 of FIGS. 6-8B further includes, biasing members 32, 34, front portions 30, 40 and rear portions 36, 38. Biasing members 32, 34 can be metal springs, elastic, foam or other features used to bias the valves 12, 14 to a particular position, such as being spring loaded to bias both valves 12, 14 to the closed position. Further, the fuel selector valve 110 can be set such that each valve 12, 14 will open and/or close at different pressures acting on the valve. In this way, the fuel selector valve 110 can use fluid pressure to select a flow pathway through the valve. In some embodiments, this can be a function of the spring force of each individual spring, as well as the interaction of the spring with the valve. In some embodiments, the position of the spring and the valve can be adjusted to further calibrate the pressure required to open the valve 12, 14.
  • For example, the front portions 30, 40 can be threadedly received into the channels 16, 18. This can allow a user to adjust the position of the front portions 30, 40 within the channels and thereby adjust the compression on the spring, as can best be seen in FIG. 7A. In this illustrated embodiment, the spring 32, 34 is located between the valve 12, 14 and the respective rear portion 36, 38. The spring biases the valve to the closed position where it contacts the front portion 30, 40. Each front portion 30, 40 has holes 42 passing therethrough that are blocked by the valve when the valve is in contact with the front portion. Thus, the adjustment of the position of the front portion with respect to the valve can affect the amount of pressure required to move the valve away from the front portion to open the valve. In some embodiments, the front portions 30, 40 can be adjustable from outside the housing 24. This can allow for the valve 110 to be calibrated without having to disassemble the housing 24. In other embodiments, such as that shown, the front portions 30, 40 can be preset, such as at a factory, and are not accessible from outside the housing 24. This can prevent undesired modification or tampering with the valve 110. Other methods and systems of calibration can also be used.
  • Fluid pressure acting on the valve 12, 14, such as through the holes 42 can force the valve to open. FIG. 7A shows a first open position where a threshold amount of pressure has been achieved to cause the valve 14 to open, while valve 12 still remains closed. FIG. 7B illustrates a second open position where a second threshold pressure has been reached to close valve 14 at the rear end of the valve, and a third threshold pressure has been achieved to open valve 12. In some embodiments, the second and third threshold pressures can be the same. In some embodiments, the third threshold pressure can be greater than the second and the first threshold pressures. Of course, this may change for different configurations, such as where the springs interact and bias the valves in different ways and to different positions.
  • In some embodiments, the fuel selector valve 110 can be used in a dual fuel appliance, such as an appliance configured to use with NG or LP. In this situation, the first threshold pressure to open valve 14 may be set to be between about 3 to 8 inches of water column, including all values and sub-ranges therebetween. In some embodiments, the first threshold pressure is about: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8 inches of water column. The second threshold pressure to close valve 14 may be set to be between about 5 to 10 inches of water column, including all values and sub-ranges therebetween. The third threshold pressure to open valve 12 can be set to be between about 8 to 12 inches of water column, including all values and sub-ranges therebetween. In some embodiments, the third threshold pressure is about: 8, 9, 10, 11 or 12 inches of water column. In a preferred embodiment, the first and second threshold pressures are between about 3 to 8 inches of water column, where the second is greater than the first and the third threshold pressure is between about 10 to 12 inches of water column. In this embodiment, as in most dual fuel embodiments, the ranges do not overlap.
  • Returning now to calibration, for certain springs, as the spring is compressed it can require a greater force to further compress the spring. Thus, moving the front portion 30, 40 away from the respective valve 12, 14 would decrease the force required to initially compress the spring, such as to move the valve 14 from a closed position (FIG. 7A) to an open position (FIG. 7B). The reverse would also be true, moving the front portion closer to the valve would increase the force required to initially compress the spring.
  • In some embodiments, a spring can be used that has a linear spring force in the desired range of movement, compression or extension, used in the fuel selection valve. The spring force for a particular use of a particular spring can be based on many different factors such as material, size, range of required movement, etc.
  • Turning now to FIG. 7C, the valves 12, 14 will now be discussed in more detail. Each valve 12, 14 can form one of more valve seats to prevent fluid flow from passing the valve or to redirect fluid flow in a particular manner. For example, valve 12 has a forward ledge portion 43 and valve 14 has a forward ledge portion 44 and a rearward ledge portion 46, all of which are used to seat the valve 12, 14 against another surface and close the valve. As shown, the forward ledge portions 43, 44 seat with the front portions 30, 40 and the rearward ledge portion 46 seats with a ledge 48 within the outer housing 24. Other configurations are also possible, such as a valve with a portion that seats in multiple locations within the outer housing, for example to have a first closed position, on open position and a second closed position. A front face and a back face of a ledge on a valve could be used to seat the valve, as one further example.
  • The front 30, 40 and rear 36, 38 portions can be used to position the valve 12, 14 within the housing 24. For example, the rear portions 36, 38 can surround a central region of the valve and the valve can move or slide within the rear portion. Further the spring 32, 34 can be between the valve and the rear portion. The front portions 30, 40 can have one or more holes 42 passing therethrough. Fluid pressure acting on the valve 12, 14, such as through the holes 42 can force the valve to open. In some embodiments, the front portions 30, 40 can have a channel 50. The channel 50 can be used to guide movement of the valve. In addition, the channel can direct fluid flow at the valve to open the valve. Because there are no exits in the channel, fluid flow does not pass around the valve but rather remains constantly acting against the valve as long as there is flow through the fuel selector valve 110.
  • In other embodiments, the front and/or rear portions can be permanently or integrally attached to the housing 24. Some embodiments do not have either or both of a front or rear portion.
  • FIGS. 9-22 show schematic representations of various other designs for a fuel selector valve 110. Each set of figures “A” & “B” represent the fuel selector valve in a first state (A) and a second state (B) where a fluid flow pressure would preferably be greater in the second state.
  • FIGS. 9A-B show a series of gates 12, 14. In the initial position and at the first fluid flow, gate 14 is open and gate 12 is closed. An increased fluid pressure acts on the gates to close gate 14 and to open gate 12. The gates can be resilient and can act as springs. Thus, once the pressure is decreased, the gates can return to their initial positions.
  • FIGS. 10A-B includes a pressure plate 52 and a spring 32, where fluid pressure can act on the pressure plate 52 to move it from the initial position where one channel 18 is open to the second position where the original channel 18 is closed and a second channel 16 is open. The pressure plate 52 can have one or more holes 42 to allow fluid to flow through the plate 52 in some locations. In some embodiments the plate 52 can be smaller than the internal chamber so that fluid can flow around the plate instead or in addition to through the plate.
  • FIGS. 11A-B show a series of gates 12, 14 in a teeter-totter configuration and a spring 32. Gate 14 has an increased surface area compared to gate 12 so that more of the fluid flow and pressure will act on gate 14. In the initial position and at the first fluid flow, gate 14 is open and gate 12 is closed. An increased fluid pressure acts on gate 14 to close channel 18 while expanding the spring 32. This also opens gate 12 because the gates are connected by connecting rod 54.
  • FIGS. 12A-B show a series of gates 12, 14 in the form of steel balls connected to magnets 56. The initial fluid flow pressure is not enough to overcome the magnetic attraction between the steel balls 12, 14 and the magnets 56. Thus, gate 14 remains open and gate 12 remains closed. Increased fluid pressure overcomes the attraction and the steel balls move from their initial position to close gate 14 and to open gate 12. Once the pressure is decreased, the magnet 56 will cause the ball to return to the initial position.
  • FIGS. 13A-B is very similar to FIGS. 12A-B except that only one steel ball and a magnet are used instead to two and the ball blocks one path in the first position and blocks another path in the second. FIGS. 14A-B show a magnet and sliding gate 12, similar to the single steel ball and magnet in FIGS. 13A-B. Holes 42 passing through the gate 12 allow fluid to flow through the gate in the initial position but are blocked in the second position.
  • FIGS. 15A-B show a diaphragm that works in a similar manner to the pressure plate of FIGS. 10A-B. An increased pressure causes the diaphragm to move. In the initial position and at the first fluid flow, channel 18 open and channel 16 is closed. An increased fluid pressure acts on the diaphragm to plug channel 18 with gate 14 and to open gate 12. Gate 12 can be part of a tension rod 60 which may also include a spring 32. The tension rod can have holes 42 therethrough to allow flow past the diaphragm. Moving the diaphragm advances the rod and the gate 12 is moved away from channel 16 to allow flow therethrough. Once the pressure is decreased, the gates can return to their initial positions.
  • Each of FIGS. 9-15 illustrates a fuel selector valve 110 that makes a selection between one of two exits. FIGS. 16-22 show other embodiments with two or more exits where generally all of the exits can be open, and then one or more of the exits can be blocked. As will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art, the fuel selector valves of FIGS. 16-22 function is similar ways to the fuel selector valves shown in FIGS. 9-15 and described above.
  • It will be understood that any of the pressure sensitive valves described herein, whether as part of a fuel selector valve, nozzle, or other component of the heating assembly, can function in one of many different ways, where the valve is controlled by the pressure of the fluid flowing through the valve. For example, many of the embodiments shown herein comprise helical or coil springs. Other types of springs, or devices can also be used in the pressure sensitive valve. Further, the pressure sensitive valves can operate in a single stage or a dual stage manner. Many valves described herein both open and close the valve under the desired circumstances (dual stage), i.e. open at one pressure for a particular fuel and close at another pressure for a different fuel. Single stage valves may also be used in many of these applications. Single stage valves may only open or close the valve, or change the flow path through the valve in response to the flow of fluid. Thus for example, the fuel selector valve 110 shown in FIG. 7A is shown with a single stage valve 12 and a dual stage valve 14. The dual stage valve 14 can be modified so that the valve is open in the initial condition and then closes at a set pressure, instead of being closed, opening at a set pressure and then closing at a set pressure. In some instances, it is easier and less expensive to utilize and calibrate a single stage valve as compared to a dual stage valve. In some embodiments, the valve can include an offset. The offset can offset the valve away from the front or rear portion, so that the valve cannot be closed at either the front or back end respectively. Offsets can also be used to ensure the valve does not move beyond a certain position. For example, an offset can be used that allows the valve to close, but that prevents the valve from advancing farther, such as to prevent damage to the valve housing or housing wall.
  • As discussed previously, the fuel selector valve 110 can be used to determine a particular fluid flow path for a fluid at a certain pressure or in a pressure range. Some embodiments of heating assembly can include first and second pressure regulators 20, 22. The fuel selector valve 110 can advantageously be used to direct fluid flow to the appropriate pressure regulator without separate adjustment or action by a user.
  • In some embodiments, the first and second pressure regulators 20, 22 are separate and in some embodiments, they are connected in a regulator unit 120, as shown in FIGS. 4A-B & 8A-B. A regulator unit 120 including first and second pressure regulators 20, 22 can advantageously have a two-in, one-out fluid flow configuration, though other fluid flow configurations are also possible including one-in or two-out.
  • The pressure regulators 20, 22 can function in a similar manner to those discussed in U.S. application Ser. No. 11/443,484, filed May 30, 2006, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,607,426, incorporated herein by reference and made a part of this specification; with particular reference to the discussion on pressure regulators at columns 3-9 and FIGS. 3-7 of the issued patent.
  • The first and second pressure regulators 20, 22 can comprise spring-loaded valves or valve assemblies. The pressure settings can be set by tensioning of a screw that allows for flow control of the fuel at a predetermined pressure or pressure range and selectively maintains an orifice open so that the fuel can flow through spring-loaded valve or valve assembly of the pressure regulator. If the pressure exceeds a threshold pressure, a plunger seat can be pushed towards a seal ring to seal off the orifice, thereby closing the pressure regulator.
  • The pressure selected depends at least in part on the particular fuel used, and may desirably provide for safe and efficient fuel combustion and reduce, mitigate, or minimize undesirable emissions and pollution. In some embodiments, the first pressure regulator 20 can be set to provide a pressure in the range from about 3 to 6 inches of water column, including all values and sub-ranges therebetween. In some embodiments, the threshold or flow-terminating pressure is about: 3, 4, 5, or 6 inches of water column. In some embodiments, the second pressure regulator 22 can be configured to provide a second pressure in the range from about 8 to 12 inches of water column, including all values and sub-ranges therebetween. In some embodiments, the second threshold or flow-terminating pressure is about: 8, 9, 10, 11 or 12 inches of water column.
  • The pressure regulators 20, 22 can be preset at the manufacturing site, factory, or retailer to operate with selected fuel sources. In many embodiments, the regulator 120 includes one or more caps to prevent consumers from altering the pressure settings selected by the manufacturer. Optionally, the heater 100 and/or the regulator unit 120 can be configured to allow an installation technician and/or user or customer to adjust the heater 100 and/or the regulator unit 120 to selectively regulate the heater unit for a particular fuel source.
  • Returning now to FIGS. 3A-4B, fuel selector valves 110 and regulators 120 have been discussed above. As can be seen in the Figures, a heating source may or may not include a fuel selector valve 110 and/or a regulator 120. In some embodiments, a fuel source can be connected to a control valve 130, or the fuel selector valve and/or regulator can direct fuel to a control valve 130. The control valve 130 can comprise at least one of a manual valve, a thermostat valve, an AC solenoid, a DC solenoid and a flame adjustment motor. The control valve 130 can direct fuel to the burner 190 through a nozzle 160. The control valve 130 may also direct fuel to an ODS 180.
  • The control valve 130 can control the amount of fuel flowing through the control valve to various parts of the heating assembly. The control valve 130 can manually and/or automatically control when and how much fuel is flowing. For example, in some embodiments, the control valve can divide the flow into two or more flows or branches. The different flows or branches can be for different purposes, such as for an oxygen depletion sensor (ODS) 180 and for a burner 190. In some embodiments, the control valve 130 can output and control an amount of fuel for the ODS 180 and an amount of fuel for the burner 190.
  • Turning now to the nozzle 160, one embodiment of a nozzle 160 is shown in FIGS. 23-23C. The nozzle 160 used in a heating assembly can be a pressure sensitive nozzle similar to the fuel selector valves 110 described herein. FIGS. 23-23C illustrate a nozzle 160 with an internal structure very similar to the fuel selector valve 110 shown in FIGS. 6-8B. The illustrated nozzle includes a front portion 30′, a valve 12′, a spring 32′, and a rear portion 36′. All of which can be positioned inside a nozzle body 62. The nozzle body 62 can be a single piece or a multi-piece body.
  • The nozzle body can include a flange 68 and threads 70. The flange and threads can be used to attach the nozzle to another structure, such as a pipe or line running from the control valve. In some embodiments, the flange 68 is configured to be engaged by a tightening device, such as a wrench, which can aid in securing the nozzle 160 to a nozzle line. In some embodiments, the flange 68 comprises two or more substantially flat surfaces, and in other embodiments, is substantially hexagonal as shown.
  • The nozzle body 62 can define a substantially hollow cavity or pressure chamber 16′. The pressure chamber 16′ can be in fluid communication with an inlet and an outlet. In some embodiments, the outlet defines an outlet area that is smaller than the area defined by the inlet. In preferred embodiments, the pressure chamber 16′ decreases in cross-sectional area toward a distal end thereof.
  • As can be seen, a front ledge 43′ on the valve 12′ can contact the front portion 30′ such that the flow passages or holes 42′ are blocked, when the nozzle is in the initial “off” position (FIG. 23A). The flow passages or holes 42′ can define the inlet. Fluid flow into the nozzle 160 and acting on the valve 12′, such as acting on the valve 12′ by flowing through the holes 42′ and the channel 50′, can force the valve to compress the spring 32′ and move such that fluid can flow through the nozzle 160. FIG. 23B shows the nozzle 160 in a first open position. Fluid is flowing through the nozzle and out the outlet holes or orifices 64, 66. Under certain fluid flows the pressure can cause the valve to advance farther within the nozzle 160 further compressing the spring 32′. In this situation, the valve 12′ can reduce or block flow through the nozzle 160. As shown in FIG. 23C, flow through orifice 64 can be blocked by the valve 12′, while one or more orifices 66 remain open. The orifices 66 can have one of many different configurations, such as comprising two, three, four, or more holes or slots as shown in FIGS. 23-24B. The orifice 64 can also have many different configurations.
  • The nozzle 160 can be used in single fuel, dual fuel or multi-fuel appliances. For example, the nozzle 160 can be used in a dual fuel appliance, such as an appliance configured for use with either of NG or LP. In this situation, the first threshold pressure to open valve 12′ may be set to be between about 3 to 8 inches of water column (for NG), including all values and sub-ranges therebetween. In some embodiments, the first threshold pressure is about: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8 inches of water column. The second threshold pressure to close orifice 64 may be set to be above about 8 inches of water column (for LP). In some embodiments, the second threshold pressure is about: 8, 9, 10, 11 or 12 inches of water column. In this way the nozzle 160 can be used with different fuels and yet provide an amount of fuel to the burner 190 that will create similar size of flames and/or BTU values.
  • Similar to the fuel selector valve 110, the front portion 30′ of the nozzle 160 can be adjusted to calibrate the threshold pressures. In some embodiments, the spring 32′, as well as, other single or dual stage springs discussed herein, can have a spring constant (K) of about 0.0067 N/mm, between about 0.006-0.007 N/mm, or between about 0.005-8.008 N/mm. The spring can be approximately 7 mm, or between approximately 6-8 mm long. The spring can have an outer diameter between approximately 5-9 mm. The spring can be made from wire that is approximately 0.15 mm, 0.2 mm, or between approximately 0.1-0.3 mm in diameter. Other sizes, lengths and spring constants can also be used.
  • The nozzle 160 is shown together with a control valve 130 in FIG. 25A. Referring back to FIGS. 3A-C, it was pointed out that a heating assembly can have various different combinations of components and can be made to be single fuel, dual fuel or multi-fuel. The control valve 130, shown in FIG. 25A can be used in many different heating assemblies including those discussed with reference to FIGS. 3B-C. For example, the control valve can be a manual valve such as to adjust a flame height on a grill. The control valve 130 can direct fuel to the burner 190 through the nozzle 160. The control valve 130 could also be modified to control fuel flow to an ODS but such modifications are not shown.
  • Two examples are shown in FIGS. 26A-27B. FIGS. 26A-B illustrate a barbeque grill 101 having a heating assembly utilizing the nozzle 160 and control valve 130 shown in FIG. 25A. The barbeque grill 101 is shown with three different types of burners, namely a side burner, an infrared burner, and a recessed burner. FIGS. 27A-B similarly show a gas stove top/range having a heating assembly utilizing the nozzle 160 and control valve 130 shown in FIG. 25A. The barbeque grill 101 and gas stove top can be dual fuel appliances. For example, they can be used with either propane or natural gas. If using propane, an external pressure regulator may also be used.
  • Returning now to FIGS. 25A-C, a control valve 130 can be connected to a nozzle 160. The nozzle 160 can be one of many different types of nozzles, including those discussed herein. The control valve 130 can have a knob or other control feature 132 to move a valve body 134 within the control valve housing 136 to the desired position. FIG. 25B shows two different internal valve bodies 134, 134′ that could be used, though other configurations are also possible.
  • The first valve body 134 can be used to provide an “OFF” position and two “ON” positions. The two “ON” positions can be a high flow position and a low flow position. The flow of fuel into the control valve can be greater in the high flow position then in the low flow position. The valve body 134 can control the flow by providing two or more different size holes 138 through which the fuel can flow.
  • The second valve body 134′ can be used to provide an “OFF” position and an “ON” position. The “ON” position can be adjustable to provide different amounts of fuel depending on the position of the valve body within the control valve housing. For example, the valve body 134′ can have low and high positions and can be adjustable between those two positions. Thus, the amount of fuel flow can be adjusted to a desired setting that may include, low, high, medium, or something in-between those positions.
  • The different “ON” positions in the valve bodies 134, 134′ can be facilitated by one or more holes or slots 138. The holes/slots can be different sizes, and/or can change size along their length. Valve body 134 has two different sized holes 138 and valve body 134′ has a slot 138 that changes size along its length. The control valve housing 136 can have an inlet 135. The position of the valve body within the housing 136 determines whether the hole or slot 138 is in fluid communication with the inlet 135 and how much fuel can flow through the control valve 130.
  • The cross-section in FIG. 25C shows the control valve 130 in one of the “ON” positions. As has been discussed, the nozzle 160 shown is a pressure sensitive nozzle. The pressure sensitive nozzle can be single or dual stage. With a dual stage pressure sensitive nozzle, the pressure of the fluid flow opens the internal valve 12′. Independent of whether the pressure sensitive nozzle is dual stage or single stage, the pressure of the fluid flow controls whether the exit orifice 64 is open or closed and thereby controls the amount of flow through the nozzle.
  • For example, the nozzle 160 and control valve 130 can be set such that one fuel that flows at a known pressure opens the valve 12′ and allows the exit orifice 64 to remain open while a second fuel opens the valve 12′ yet closes the exit orifice 64. The second fuel flow would only pass through the exit orifices 66. The nozzle 160 and control valve 130 can be set so that this is the case independent of the position of the control valve 130. In other words, whether the control valve 130 is set to a high “ON” position or a low “ON” position the nozzle 160 would operate with a predetermined exit orifice configuration based on the type of fuel used (based on the expected pressure range of that fuel).
  • FIGS. 28-34B illustrate various additional embodiments of a nozzle 160. The nozzles are similar to the nozzle described above and illustrate additional ways that one or more orifices can be opened, closed or modified in a pressure sensitive manner.
  • FIGS. 28A-B show a nozzle 160 with one orifice 64 and a channel 72 in the valve 12′. Fluid can flow around the through the valve 12′. As the pressure increases, the valve 12′ can contact the orifice 64 and decrease the effective size of the orifice 64. For example, the valve 12 can contact and seal the orifice 64 such that only flow from the channel 72 can leave the nozzle 160 through the orifice. As the channel 72 can have a smaller diameter than the orifice 64, this can decrease the amount of fluid flow through the nozzle 160. In some embodiments, the valve 12′ can fit inside the orifice 64 as shown (FIG. 28B).
  • FIGS. 29A-32B all show additional nozzles 160 where the fluid flow at a certain pressure can dislodge or move another piece of material to block or close one or more exit orifices 64. FIGS. 29A-B show a steel ball 12′ and a magnet 56′. FIGS. 30A-B show a force plate 52′ and a magnet 56′. FIGS. 31A-B show a resilient gate 12′. FIGS. 32A-B show a force plate 52′ and a magnet 56′. The arrows illustrate the fuel flow paths through the various nozzles.
  • Now looking to FIGS. 33A-D, another embodiment of a nozzle 160 is shown. The nozzle show can be pressure sensitive such that it can be used interchangeably with different fuels, but can also advantageously be self regulating while in use with a single fuel. This is because the nozzle can be configured such that the volume of fluid flowing through the nozzle can be directly related to the fluid pressure. In other words, the nozzle can be configured to control the flow such that as the pressure increases, the volume of fuel flowing through the nozzle decreases. Thus, for a fuel at a constant temperature, the nozzle can provide a varying volume of fuel as the pressure of the fuel fluctuates while maintaining a constant BTU value.
  • This is a result of the ideal gas law:

  • PV=nRT  (1)
  • where “P” is the absolute pressure of the gas, “V” is the volume, “n” is the amount of substance; “R” is the gas constant, and “T” is the absolute temperature. Where amount and temperature remain constant, pressure and volume are inversely related. Thus, as the pressure increases, less volume of fuel is needed to provide the same amount of fuel. The amount is typically recorded in number of moles. A set number of moles of fuel will provide a particular BTU value. Therefore, the pressure sensitive nozzle shown in FIGS. 33A-D can advantageously provide a constant amount of fuel for a constant BTU value for a particular fuel, even as the fuel pressure fluctuates.
  • In some embodiments, the valve 12′ can have an end 73 that cooperates with the internal chamber 16′ to determine the volume of fluid that can flow through the valve 12′. For example, the valve end 73 can be cylindrical while a surface 74 of the internal chamber 16′ can be frustoconical. Thus, as the cylinder valve end 73 approaches the frustoconical surface 74 the gap 76 between the two surfaces can slowly decrease, thus a smaller volume of fuel can pass through the gap 76. FIGS. 33A, B, C, and D illustrate how the gap can change as the pressure increases and the valve moves closer to the surface, until it contacts the surface and prevents flow through the valve 12′. In some embodiments, the valve end 73 includes a gasket 78 to sealingly close the gap 76.
  • In some embodiments, the nozzle 160 shown in FIGS. 33A-D can include one or more additional orifices 66. In some embodiments, the valve 12′ can have a channel running through the valve 12′ similar to that shown in FIGS. 28A-B.
  • In the various embodiments of valves, including those within a nozzle, adjustments can be made to calibrate the valve. For example, in FIGS. 33A-D, similar to the discussion with respect to the valve in FIG. 7A, the front portion 30′ can be threadedly received into the interior of the nozzle. Calibrating the valve adjusts force required to move the valve 12′ within the valve body or housing 62. This can be done in many ways, such as by adjusting the position of the valve 12′ within the valve body or housing 62 and adjusting the compression or tension on a spring. Here, calibration can adjust the position of the valve body 12′ in relation to the front portion 30′ while adjusting the amount of force required to act on the spring to move the valve a desired amount. In the example of FIGS. 33A-D, the spring biases the valve to the closed position and adjusting the position of the front portion can increase or decrease the amount of pressure required to further compress the spring and open the valve to allow flow therethrough.
  • In some embodiments, the position of the rear portion 36′, as well as, or in addition to the front portion 30′ can be adjusted to calibrate the nozzle. For example, the rear portion 36′ can be threadedly received into the interior of the nozzle. Further, the front and rear portions can be adjustable from either or both of inside and outside the housing 62. In some embodiments, the heating assembly can allow for calibration of one or more of the various valves without disassembly of the heating assembly.
  • Turning now to FIGS. 34A-B, an embodiment of a nozzle 160 is shown. In this nozzle 160, the position of both the front 30′ and rear 36′ portions can be adjusted. Further, at least the position of the rear portion 36′ can be adjusted from outside the nozzle body or housing 62. The nozzle 160 can comprise an adjustment feature 88. The adjustment feature 88 can be threadedly received into the housing. The adjustment feature 88 can comprise an end cap. The adjustment feature 88 can comprise a set screw. Adjustment of the position of the set screw can adjust the position of the rear portion 36′ and the pressure of the spring 32′ acting on the rear portion 36′. The set screw can have a detent 90, for example, to receive the head of a screw driver, Allen wrench or other tool. The tool can be used to adjust the position of the set screw from outside the nozzle housing 62. The set screw can include one or more holes that pass through the set screw. The one or more holes can comprise exit orifices 64, 66. As shown, the exit orifice 64 connects to the detent 90, other configurations are also possible. In some embodiments, the adjustment feature can be a part of the rear portion, or be integrally formed with the rear portion.
  • As illustrated, the adjustment feature 88 can have a frustoconical interior surface 74′ similar to the valve interior of FIGS. 33A-D. The valve end 73 can cooperate with the surface 74′ to determine the volume of fluid that can flow through the valve 12′. Thus, as the cylinder valve end 73 approaches the frustoconical surface 74′ the gap 76 between the two surfaces can slowly decrease, thus a smaller volume of fuel can pass through the gap 76.
  • The adjustment feature 88 can also be used with other valves and/or nozzles, for example, the nozzles shown in FIGS. 23-25C, 28A-B. The adjustment feature 88 can also be used in such as way so as not to be within or form part of the flow path of fuel through the valve or nozzle.
  • FIG. 34B also illustrates two offsets 91, 93. The offset 91 can be used to prevent the valve 12′ from contacting the front portion 30′ in such a way as to close the valve completely at the front end. Offsets or similar structures can be used along the valve to prevent closing the valve on either or both of the front and the back sides of the valve. In some embodiments, an offset can be used with a single stage valve. Offsets can be part of the valve, or part of other structures. For example, the front or rear portion can include an offset. Offsets can also be used to ensure the valve does not move beyond a certain position. For example, an offset 93 can be used that allows the valve to close, but that prevents the valve from advancing farther, such as to prevent damage to the valve housing or housing wall.
  • FIG. 35 shows one embodiment of an oxygen depletion sensor (ODS) 180. An ODS 180 or pilot light (not shown) can include a nozzle similar to the burner nozzles 160 shown and/or described herein and can be used in some heating assemblies.
  • The ODS 180 shown includes a thermocouple 182, an electrode 80 and an ODS nozzle 82. The ODS nozzle 82 can include an injector 84 and an air inlet 86. A fuel can flow from the ODS line 143 through the ODS nozzle 82 and toward the thermocouple 182. The fuel flows near the air inlet 86, thus drawing in air for mixing with the fuel.
  • In some embodiments, the injector 84 can be a pressure sensitive injector and can include any of the features of the pressure sensitive nozzles described herein. For example, the exit orifices 64 and/or 66 can be located along line A-A of FIG. 35 within the ODS nozzle 82. The air inlet 86 can also be adjustable so that the air fuel combination is appropriate for the particular type of fuel used.
  • The electrode 80 can be used to ignite fuel exiting the ODS nozzle 82. In some embodiments, a user can activate the electrode 80 by depressing the igniter switch 186 (see FIG. 2). The electrode can comprise any suitable device for creating a spark to ignite a combustible fuel. In some embodiments, the electrode is a piezoelectric igniter. Igniting the fluid flowing through the nozzle 82 can create a pilot flame. In preferred embodiments, the nozzle 82 directs the pilot flame toward the thermocouple such that the thermocouple is heated by the flame, which permits fuel to flow through the control valve 130.
  • In various embodiments, the ODS 180 provides a steady pilot flame that heats the thermocouple 182 unless the oxygen level in the ambient air drops below a threshold level. In certain embodiments, the threshold oxygen level is between about 18 percent and about 18.5 percent. In some embodiments, when the oxygen level drops below the threshold level, the pilot flame moves away from the thermocouple, the thermocouple cools, and the control valve 130 closes, thereby cutting off the fuel supply to the heater.
  • FIGS. 36A-38B show various additional embodiments of an ODS. The ODS can include or can be connected to a valve. The valve can be user selectable or pressure selectable. For example, FIGS. 36A-B illustrate an ODS 180′ connected to a pressure selectable valve 110′ similar to that shown in FIGS. 6-7C. Any of the pressure selectable valves shown here connected to an ODS can also be used to connect to a pressure regulator or other component of a heating assembly. In addition, other types of user selectable or pressure selectable valves can also be connected to an ODS.
  • Referring first to FIGS. 36A-B, an ODS 180′ with pressure selectable valve 110′ is shown. The ODS 180′ can include a thermocouple 182, an electrode 80, a mounting bracket 92, and an ODS nozzle 82′. The ODS nozzle 82′ can include injectors 84A, 84B and air inlets 86A, 86B. The injectors can each have an exit orifice 94A, 94B. The exit orifices 94A, 94B can the same or different sizes. The air inlets 86A, 86B can also be the same or different sizes, and in some embodiments are adjustable.
  • The valve 110′ can be similar to those described herein, such as that in FIGS. 6-7C. The valve 110′ can allow for at least two different flow paths through the valve depending on the pressure of the flow. The valve 110′ can include a main housing 24, a fuel source connection or inlet 26, valves 12″, 14″, biasing members 32, 34, front portions 30″, 40″ and rear portions 36″, 38″.
  • Looking to FIG. 36B, a first flow path is shown indicated by the arrows. Fuel at a first pressure can then pass through valve 14″ into injector 84B and thereby fuel can flow through the ODS. In a dual stage configuration, the fuel at the first pressure can also cause valve 14″ to open, while valve 12″ remains closed to allow the fuel to flow through the valve 110′. When fuel at a higher pressure is introduced into the valve 110′, the higher pressure fuel can cause the valve 14″ to close by contacting the interior surface of the valve 110′ at 98. Valve 12″ can be opened by the higher pressure fuel which can then direct the flow to injector 84A and thereby higher pressure fuel can flow through the ODS. The ODS can have one outlet 95 (FIGS. 36A-B), or two outlets 95 (FIGS. 37A-38B). The outlets can direct fuel towards the thermocouple.
  • In some embodiments with two outlets 95, the outlets can be located the same or different distances away from the thermocouple. Also, the ODS can include one or more thermocouples 182 and igniters 80. In some embodiments, the ODS can have one or more flame directors 97. The flame directors 97 can be used to position the flame in a predetermined relationship to the thermocouple. Further, the embodiments shown in FIGS. 37A-B and FIGS. 38A-B including at least some of these features will be understood as functioning in a similar manner to the description of FIGS. 36A-B.
  • A filter 96 can be included anywhere along the fuel flow path within the heating assembly. As shown in FIGS. 36B, 37B and 38B, a filter 96 is within the injectors 84A, 84B. The filter can filter out impurities in the fuel flow.
  • In some embodiments, the valve 110′ can allow for calibration of the valves 12″, 14″ from outside the housing. The front portions 30″, 40″ can pass through the housing 24 and can include a detent 90′. The detent can be used to adjust the position of the front portion within the valve 110′. For example, the detent 90′ can receive the head of a screw driver, Allen wrench or other tool to adjust the position of the front portion.
  • Referring now to FIGS. 41A-B, another embodiment of a pressure selectable valve 110″ is shown which can be used with an ODS, a pressure regulator, or other components of a heating assembly. Except where described as operating in a different manner, the embodiments of FIGS. 41A-B are understood to function the same as or substantially similar to the embodiments illustrated by FIGS. 35-38B and to allow for the specific features described with reference to FIGS. 35-38B. As illustrated, the pressure selectable valve comprises an inlet 26, a chamber 16′, a plurality of flow paths 45A, B, a first exit orifice 94A′, and a second exit orifice 94B′. Fuel enters the chamber 16′ from the inlet 26, passes through the flow paths 45A,B and then passes either through a first channel 50A or a second channel 50B in order to reach the first or second exit orifices 94A′,B′, respectively.
  • The pressure selectable valve 110″ has a first valve 73A and a second valve 73B. The first valve 73A is movable between a first position where the valve body 79A is a first distance from the valve seat 77A, and a second position where the valve body 79A is a second distance from the valve seat 77A, the second distance being less than the first distance. The second valve 73B is movable between a first position where the valve body 79B is a first distance from the valve seat 77B, and a second position where the valve body 79B is a second distance from the valve seat 77B, the second distance being greater than the first distance.
  • In the first position, the valve body 79B is desirably in contact with the valve seat 77B (a closed position), substantially preventing any fluid flow into the second channel 50B, while the valve body 79A is desirably spaced from the valve seat 77A (an open position) so as to allow fluid flow into the first channel 50A. In the second position, the valve body 79B is desirably spaced from the valve seat 77B (an open position) so as to allow fluid flow into the second channel 50B, while the valve body 79A is desirably in contact with the valve seat 77A (a closed position), substantially preventing any flow of fuel into the first channel 50A.
  • The valve bodies 79A,B can comprise any structure that can substantially limit the flow of fuel through the channels, such as a gasket, o-ring, rubber stopper, etc. FIG. 41A illustrates the first position of valves 73A, B and FIG. 41B illustrates the second position of valves 73A, B.
  • As illustrated in FIGS. 41A-B, the first and second valves 73A, B are connected by means of a lever arm 75 that has a first portion extending through a section of the first valve 73A and a second portion extending through a section of the second valve 73B. The lever arm is configured such that when the first valve moves from an open position to a closed position the lever arm will move the second valve from a closed position to an open position. When the first valve returns to an open position the lever arm will move the second valve to a closed position.
  • The movement of each valve as illustrated is translation along a single axis, but in other embodiments the valves can move from a closed position to an open position through translation along multiple axes, by rotating, or by some combination of translation and rotation.
  • The connection between the valves need not be through a lever arm configured as described above but can desirably occur through any device or connection that moves the second valve to an open position when the first valve moves to a closed position, and then returns the second valve to a closed position when the first valve returns to an open position. For example, the connection can occur from a lever arm that does not extend through the valves but is instead affixed to the valves. In other embodiments, the valves can be directly connected to each other.
  • The pressure selectable valve 110″ further comprises a biasing member 32 that exerts a force designed to keep the first valve 73A in a closed position. When fuel enters the pressure selectable valve 110″ through the inlet 26, the pressure from the fuel applies a force against a diaphragm 146 or other structure directly or indirectly connected to the biasing member 32. In some embodiments, the diaphragm or other structure can act as a spring force and in some embodiments it can serve as the biasing member. If the fuel is at a sufficient, designated pressure, it will keep the biasing member in a compressed state, the first valve 73A open, and the second valve 73B closed. When a fuel that operates at a lower pressure is used, the pressure will be insufficient to compress the biasing member 32, which will exert a closing force on the first valve 73A, thereby opening the second valve 73B. The pressure selectable valve 110″ can be configured to operate at a designated pressure consistent with the fuels and operating pressures described above.
  • The pressure selector valve 110″ can be incorporated into the heating assembly as illustrated in FIG. 43. FIG. 43 is substantially similar to the embodiment of FIG. 2, with the exception that the ODS pipe 126 connects to the pressure selectable valve 110″ before reaching the ODS 180. Additionally, the ODS 180 contains two outlets 95, as described in FIGS. 37A-38B. In some embodiments, the heating assembly can comprise two separate ODSs, one for each fuel line leading from the pressure selectable valve 110″.
  • Turning now to FIGS. 39A-B, 40A-C, and 42A-B, three additional embodiments of a nozzle 160 are shown. The nozzle 160 is a pressure sensitive nozzle similar to that described previously. As has also been mentioned previously, various features (such as the internal valve) of the nozzles 160 shown and described can also be used in other components, such as in fuel selector valves, and ODSs.
  • Referring first to FIGS. 39A-B, the nozzle 160 includes a front portion 30″, a valve 12″, a spring 32′, and a rear portion 36′, all of which can be positioned inside a nozzle body 62. The nozzle body 62 can be a single piece or a multi-piece body and can include a flange 68 and threads 70.
  • The spring 32′ can be a single stage or a dual stage spring. As shown, the spring 32′ is a single stage spring and is configured to move from a first position to a second position at a set pressure. In the second position, the valve 12″ can reduce or block flow through the nozzle 160. As shown in FIG. 39B, flow through orifice 64 can be blocked by the valve 12″, while one or more orifices 66 remain open. In this way, the nozzle can function in a manner similar to those previously described.
  • The valve 12″ can have a passage 140 through which fluid, such as fuel, can pass. The passage 140 can have an inlet 142 and an outlet 144. As shown, there is one inlet 142 and two outlets 144, though any number of inlets and outlets can be used. The passage can be in central region or can direct fluid to or through a central region of the valve 12″. The valve 12″ can also include a front ledge 43″. The front ledge 43″ and the passage 140 can be used to direct all, or a substantial portion, of the fluid flow through the valve 12″ and can increase the forces acting on the valve to reliably open and/or close the valve.
  • Turning now to FIGS. 40A-C another variation of the nozzle 160 is shown. The valve 12′″ also has a passage 140 with an inlet 142 and an outlet 144. The front ledge 43′″ of the valve 12′″ can be used to connect a diaphragm 146 and a diaphragm retainer 148 to the valve 12′″. The nozzle 160 can also include a washer 150 and a front portion 130′″. The diaphragm retainer can be force fit or otherwise secured onto the valve 12′″. This can allow the diaphragm 146, the diaphragm retainer 148, and the valve 12′″ to move together. Other configurations to connect a diaphragm to the valve 12′″ can also be used.
  • The front portion 130′″ can secure the washer 150 and diaphragm 146 in place within the nozzle. For example, in the cross section of FIG. 40B the front portion 30′″ is not shown, but can be used to secure the washer 150 and diaphragm 146 in place at the location in the nozzle shown.
  • The diaphragm 146 can act as a spring force and in some embodiments can replace the spring 32′. In some embodiments, the spring 32′ can serve to return the diaphragm 146 to an initial position. In some embodiments, the diaphragm can be set to allow the valve 12′″ to move at a set fluid pressure, such as at 8 inches water column, or other pressures as has been described herein with reference to other valves. In some embodiments, the diaphragm can be made from various materials including silicone and/or rubber.
  • FIG. 40C shows the valve 12′″ in two different positions, such as at an initial position at a lower pressure and the second position at a higher pressure. At the higher pressure the hole 64 can be closed by the valve 12′″.
  • The valves 12″ and 12′″ can advantageously have an increased surface area that is exposed to the fluid flowing through the nozzle. This increased exposure can lead to increased repeatability and reliability of the nozzle under different flow circumstances. The increased surface area can help ensure that the valve sealingly closes the hole 64. Having the fluid flow through the valve and in particular, flow through the central region of the valve can focus the fluid pressure in the center of the valve. As the hole 64 is aligned with the center of the valve focusing the fluid pressure at the center of the valve can increase the reliability of the valve, sealing the hole at increased pressures. In addition, the diaphragm has the added benefit of regulating the gas pressure similar to a typical pressure regulator. This can beneficially provide additional fluid pressure regulation throughout a heater system.
  • In some embodiments, a fuel selector valve and/or an ODS can also have a valve with a passage therethrough and/or a diaphragm.
  • FIGS. 42A-B show yet another variation of the nozzle 160. The nozzle has a first flow path 55 through a first channel 51 and out one or more orifices 64. The first flow path 55 remains continuously open. The nozzle also has a second flow path 57 that passes through a second channel 53 and out one or more orifices 66. The first channel 51 and second channel 53 can comprise a tube, pipe, or any structure or combination of structures that define a space in which a fluid can flow.
  • The second flow path 57 can be substantially blocked by a valve body 12″″. The valve body 12″″ can be connected to a diaphragm 146, a diaphragm retainer, and/or a biasing member 32 such that the valve body 12″″ moves with the diaphragm 146, diaphragm retainer, and/or a biasing member 32, as described above. The nozzle comprises a valve seat 48′ against which the valve body 12″″ can seat, substantially closing access to the second channel 53. As illustrated, the valve body has a beveled portion 47 that seats against the valve seat 48′. In other embodiments, the valve body 12″″ can be any shape that can mate with a portion of the nozzle to substantially block the second flow path 57. For example, in some embodiments the valve body 12″″ can comprise a ledge portion as in FIGS. 7A-C.
  • FIG. 42A illustrates an embodiment where the fuel entering the inlet is at a pressure sufficient to compress the biasing member, seating the valve body 12″″ against the valve seat 48′ and substantially closing access to the second channel 53. As illustrated, fuel will only be able to exit the nozzle by flowing along the first flow path, through the first channel 51 and out of the orifice 64. The pressure needed to close the second channel 53 can be set at 8 inches water column, or other pressures as has been described herein with reference to other valves.
  • FIG. 42B illustrates an embodiment where the fuel entering the inlet is at a pressure that fails to compress the biasing member 32 to a point where the beveled portion 47 seats against the valve seat 48′ and closes access to the second channel 53. The biasing member at this lower pressure maintains the valve body 12″″ open and fuel will flow along both flow paths 55, 57 and out the nozzle 160 through the orifices 64, 66.
  • In some embodiments, if the pressure is insufficient to completely close the channel 53, the valve body 12″″ can be in a position close enough to the valve seat 48′ such that fluid flow along the second flow path 57 is restricted but access to the channel 53 is not substantially closed. In some embodiments, the valve body 12″″ can have a first position at a first fluid pressure and a second position at a second, higher fluid pressure such that there is a greater fluid flow along the second flow path 57 in the first position than in the second position.
  • The embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 42A-B are included within a single housing, but in other embodiments the second channel, the first channel, or both can be partially or completely outside of a housing.
  • FIG. 44A illustrates a schematic representation of the flow of fuel in some embodiments of a dual fuel heating system. In some embodiments, the fuel can travel from the regulator to the control or gas valve, where it splits into two paths. The first path 126 heads toward the pressure selector valve, where a first fuel continues along a first line 99A and a second fuel continues along a second line 99B. The two lines either head to a single ODS or pilot with separate fuel outlets as described with reference to FIGS. 37A-38B, or to two separate ODS or pilots, one for a first fuel and one for a second fuel. The second path 124 from the control valve heads toward a pressure orifice or nozzle, which adjusts its output to the burner based on the pressure of the fuel as described in other embodiments above.
  • In further embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 44B, the fuel can flow from the regulator into multiple gas valves, each of which lead to a pressure orifice or nozzle and then to a burner. This configuration illustrates embodiments where the gas is used to fuel multiple burners, such as ovens, stoves, barbecue grills, etc.
  • FIGS. 45-47B illustrate one embodiment of a heating assembly that can be used with dual fuel (e.g., natural gas and liquid propane) systems as described above. For example, the heating assembly can be used with heating systems and/or systems with burners, such as ovens, stoves, barbecue grills, etc. but, may also be used in other types of heating systems. It will be understood that the heating assembly 210 is similar in some ways to the nozzle assembly 160 described with respect to FIGS. 42A-B, as well as, certain other embodiments described herein.
  • FIG. 45 illustrates a perspective view of the heating assembly 210. The heating assembly can include an inlet 226 (better viewed in FIGS. 46A-47B) adapted to receive a fluid flow, such as from a fuel line. The heating assembly 210 can include a solenoid valve 270, which can be activated to block a fluid from passing further into the heating assembly 210. The heating assembly 210 can also include a pressure selector valve 250, which can be configured to selectively block a fluid flow depending on its pressure. In some embodiments, the heating assembly 210 can also include a control valve 230 with a control valve actuator 236, which can be used to adjust the amount of fluid flowing through the heating assembly 210.
  • The illustrated embodiment includes the solenoid valve, the pressure selector valve, and the control valve within a single housing of the heating assembly 210. In some embodiments, the solenoid valve, the pressure selector valve, and/or the control valve can be in one or more independent housings that are in fluid communication with each other. In some embodiments, the heating assembly 210 may lack one or more of the solenoid valve, the pressure selector valve, and the control valve and/or may also include additional components such as an igniter.
  • In addition to the inlet 226, the heating assembly 210 can also include nozzle assembly with a first outlet 225 and a second outlet 227. Each outlet can have one or more outlet holes or orifices 264. In some embodiments, as described below, the heating assembly 210 is configured such that when a first fluid is introduced through the inlet 226 the first fluid exits through both the first outlet 225 and the second outlet 227. In some embodiments, a second fluid, flowing at a different pressure, introduced through the inlet 226 can exit through only a single outlet (e.g., first outlet 225). Preferably, the heating assembly 210 is configured to operate with a first fluid being natural gas and a second fluid being liquid propane. The first and second outlets can be the same or different sizes.
  • FIGS. 46A-47B illustrate cross sectional views of the heating assembly 210 taken along line 46A of FIG. 45. FIGS. 47A and 47B illustrate the control valve 230 in a first position in use with a first fluid (FIG. 46A) and a second fluid at a different pressure (FIG. 46B). FIGS. 47A and 47B illustrate the control valve 230 in the second position in use with the respective fluids at different pressures.
  • With reference to FIG. 46A, solenoid valve 270 can include a solenoid valve body 272, shown schematically. The solenoid valve as illustrated is in an open position, allowing fluid entering the inlet 226 to flow past the solenoid valve body. When activated, the solenoid valve body can move to a closed position, wherein a projecting or angled portion 274 of the solenoid valve body can contact a solenoid valve seat, blocking further flow of fluid past the solenoid valve body, and thereby preventing fluid from passing through the first outlet 225 or the second outlet 227. The solenoid valve 270 can be electrically coupled to a thermocouple, thermister, etc., to maintain the valve in an open position when the thermocouple, thermister, etc. is heated.
  • As the first fluid flows past the solenoid valve, it can continue along a first flow path 245A, into the control valve body 234, out through a first control valve orifice 238A in the first flow path 245A, and out the first outlet 225. The fluid can also flow along a second flow path 245B, through the pressure selector valve 250, through a second orifice 238B in the second flow path 245B, through a third orifice 238C in the second flow path 245B, and through the second outlet 227. In some embodiments, the order and arrangement of valves can vary from the illustrated arrangement.
  • The pressure selector valve 250 generally operates like similar valves described above, such as the valve described with respect to FIGS. 42A and 42B. For example, the pressure selector valve can have a valve body 212 that can connect to and move with a diaphragm 256, a diaphragm retainer 258, and/or a biasing member 252. The valve body 212 is preferably biased toward an open position, as illustrated, allowing the first fluid at the first pressure to flow through the pressure selector valve 250. Increased fluid pressures will cause the diaphragm to experience a force tending to move the valve body 212 toward a closed position, as illustrated in FIG. 46B.
  • FIG. 46B illustrates the heating assembly 210 when used with a second fluid. The second fluid preferably operates at a pressure greater than the first fluid, and the pressure can be sufficient to move the pressure selector valve body 212 to seat against a valve seat 259, substantially blocking further fluid flow. The pressure selector valve body 212 may include a projection or beveled surface 257 that can seat against the valve seat 259. Preferably, the pressure selector valve is configured such that it is in an open position with a first fuel of natural gas, and in a closed position with a second fuel of liquid propane. With both a first fuel and a second fuel the first flow path 245A can remain open. It will be understood that the heating assembly 210 can also be reversed, such that for example, the pressure selector valve 250 can have an initially closed position.
  • FIGS. 46A and 46B also illustrate the control valve 230 in a first, high flow position, in which at least one of orifices 238A, B, C can be larger than in a second, low flow position. FIGS. 47A and 47B illustrate the control valve 230 in the second position. The control valve 230 can have a number of set orifice sizes, or it can have continuously variable slots to allow for more adjustable flow. FIG. 47A illustrates the control valve in the second position with the pressure selector valve 250 in an open position. FIG. 47B illustrates the control valve in the second position with the pressure selector valve 250 in a closed position.
  • To move the control valve to the second position, the control valve actuator can be rotated, which can rotate a control valve shaft 232 and the control valve body 234. Different arrangements and connecting elements can be used to translate actuator rotation to valve body rotation. In some embodiments, the control valve actuator 236 can have a knob or other control feature, such as those described with respect to FIGS. 25A-C.
  • In the second position of the control valve, as illustrated, one or more of the orifices 238A, B, C can be smaller than in the first position of the control valve. In some embodiments, the first orifice 238A can be the same size as the second orifice 238B and third orifice 238C, when the control valve is in the first position and/or the second position. In some embodiments, the first orifice 238A can be a different size from the second orifice 238B and/or the third orifice 238C, when the control valve is in the first position and/or the second position. In some embodiments, the second orifice 238B and the third orifice 238C can be approximately the same size when the control valve is in the first position. In some embodiments, the second orifice 238B and the third orifice 238C can be approximately the same size when the control valve is in the second position, in which both the second orifice 238B and the third orifice 238C are smaller than in the first position. In some embodiments, the second orifice 238B can be of a different size than third orifice 238C when the control valve is in the second position. In some embodiments, one or more of the orifices 238A, B, C can be the same size in both the first and second positions of the control valve.
  • The control valve body 234 can have various configurations, as described with respect to FIG. 25B. Thus, in some embodiments, one or more of the orifices 238A, B, C can be holes of varying sizes. By rotating from the first position to the second position the valve body rotates from a position with larger holes aligned with the flow paths 245A, B to a position with smaller holes aligned with the flow paths. In some embodiments, one or more of the orifices can be a hole or slot that changes in size around the control valve body. In such embodiments, the control valve body can have a first, high flow position; a second, low flow position; and a variety of flow positions between the first and second positions.
  • FIGS. 48A-50B illustrate another embodiment of a heating assembly 210′ that can be used with dual fuels. Numerical reference to components is the same as previously described, except that a prime symbol (′) has been added to the reference. Where such references occur, it is to be understood that the components are the same or substantially similar to previously-described components. The illustrated heating assembly can have many of the same components of the heating assembly described with respect to FIGS. 45-47B, and where not described differently those components are understood to operate as previously described. Thus, the heating assembly 210′ can have a first outlet 225′ and a second outlet 227′, each with an outlet hole or orifice 264′. A pressure selector valve 250′ can help determine the flow paths of different fluids/fuels, such that a first fluid may exit through the first outlet 225′ and second outlet 227′, and a second fluid may exit only through the first outlet 225′. The heating assembly 210′ can also have a control valve 230′. The illustrated embodiment does not have a solenoid valve, but in some embodiments it may.
  • FIGS. 48A and 48B also illustrate an embodiment of a heating assembly with an additional flow path that leads to a nozzle 282. An electrode 280 can be positioned proximate the nozzle and can be used to ignite fuel exiting from the nozzle. In some embodiments, this arrangement can include a thermocouple (not illustrated) so that the system can act as a pilot or as an ODS, as described above.
  • FIGS. 49A and 49B show the heating assembly 210′ in use with the second fluid, such as liquid propane. FIG. 49A illustrates the high position and FIG. 49B shows the low position. FIGS. 50A and 50B show the heating assembly 210′ in use with the first fluid, such as natural gas. FIG. 50A illustrates the high position and FIG. 50B shows the low position. As described above, in the high position one or more of the orifices 238A′, 238B′, 238C′ can be larger than it is when the heating assembly is in the low position. Also as described above, in some embodiments one or more of the orifices can be a hole or slot that changes in size around the control valve, and the control valve can have a high position, a low position, and a plurality of flow positions between the high and low positions.
  • Advantageously, certain embodiments of the heating assembly as described herein facilitate a single appliance unit being efficaciously used with different fuel sources. This desirably saves on inventory costs, offers a retailer or store to stock and provide a single unit that is usable with more than one fuel source, and permits customers the convenience of readily obtaining a unit which operates with the fuel source of their choice.
  • Advantageously, certain embodiments of the heating assembly can transition between the different operating configurations as desired with relative ease and without or with little adjustment by an installer and/or an end user. Preferably, a user does not need to make a fuel selection through any type of control or adjustment. The systems described herein can alleviate many of the different adjustments and changes required to change from one fuel to another in many prior art heating sources.
  • It will be understood that the embodiments and components described herein can be used with, without and/or instead of other embodiments and components as described herein or otherwise. For example, the fuel selector valve described herein can be connected to the regulator 120 of the heater 100 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.
  • Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics of any embodiment described above may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments.
  • Similarly, it should be appreciated that in the above description of embodiments, various features of the inventions are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that any claim require more features than are expressly recited in that claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in a combination of fewer than all features of any single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the Detailed Description are hereby expressly incorporated into this Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment.

Claims (21)

What is claimed is:
1. A dual fuel heating system comprising:
a nozzle comprising at least one inlet, at least one first outlet, and at least one second outlet;
a first flow path from a fuel line to the at least one first outlet;
a second flow path from the fuel line to the at least one second outlet; and
a movable body positioned at least partially within the second flow path;
wherein in a first position of the movable body, the second flow path is substantially closed by the movable body, the amount of flow through the at least one second outlet is substantially close to zero, and the amount of flow through the nozzle is less than in a second position;
wherein the movable body is configured such that movement between the first and second positions is controlled by a pressure of a fluid flowing to the nozzle.
2. The dual fuel heating system of claim 1, further comprising a biasing member configured to regulate the position of the movable body in response to the pressure of the fluid flowing through the nozzle.
3. The dual fuel heating system of claim 1, wherein the heating system is part of a water heater, a fireplace, a gas oven, a BBQ, or a gas dryer.
4. The dual fuel heating system of claim 1, wherein the nozzle is a burner nozzle to direct fuel to the burner to be combusted at the burner.
5. The dual fuel heating system of claim 1, further comprising a control valve positioned within the first flow path, wherein the control valve has a first position configured to allow a first flow of fuel through the first flow path and a second position configured to allow a second flow of fuel through the first flow path, wherein the second flow of fuel is less than the first flow of fuel.
6. The dual fuel heating system of claim 5, wherein the control valve rotates between the first position and the second position.
7. The dual fuel heating system of claim 5, wherein the control valve is also positioned within the second flow path and the first position is further configured to allow a third flow of fuel through the second flow path and the second position is further configured to allow a fourth flow of fuel through the second flow path, wherein the fourth flow of fuel is less than the third flow of fuel.
8. A dual fuel heating assembly comprising:
a nozzle housing comprising:
an inlet;
at least one first outlet; and
at least one second outlet, wherein a first fluid pathway extends between the inlet and the at least one first outlet, and a second fluid pathway extends between the inlet and the at least one second outlet; and
a pressure controlled valve positioned within the second fluid pathway, the valve having an open and a closed position, the valve configured such that the valve position is based on a fluid pressure of fluid flowing through the second fluid pathway to either allow or prevent fluid flow to the at least one second outlet.
9. The dual fuel heating assembly of claim 8, wherein the pressure controlled valve comprises a spring and a diaphragm, wherein the fluid pressure acts on the diaphragm to determine whether the valve is in the open or closed position.
10. The dual fuel heating assembly of claim 8, further comprising a flow control valve positioned within at least one of the first and second fluid pathways, wherein the flow control valve is configured to control a size of the fluid pathway.
11. The dual fuel heating assembly of claim 10, wherein the flow control valve comprises a rotatable valve.
12. The dual fuel heating assembly of claim 10, wherein the flow control valve is positioned within both the first and second fluid pathways.
13. The dual fuel heating assembly of claim 8, wherein the pressure controlled valve is part of the nozzle housing.
14. The dual fuel heating assembly of claim 8, further comprising a burner.
15. The dual fuel heating assembly of claim 14, wherein the at least one first outlet and the at least one second outlet are configured to direct fuel to the burner for combustion.
16. The dual fuel heating assembly of claim 14, further comprising an oxygen depletion sensor.
17. The dual fuel heating assembly of claim 16, wherein the nozzle housing comprises part of the oxygen depletion sensor.
18. A dual fuel heating assembly comprising:
a nozzle comprising at least one inlet, at least one first outlet, and at least one second outlet;
a first flow path from a fuel line through the at least one inlet and the at least one first outlet;
a second flow path from the fuel line through the at least one inlet and the at least one second outlet;
a control valve having a first position that allows a first flow of fuel through a control valve body and a second position that allows a second flow of fuel through the control valve body, the control valve positioned in at least one of the first flow path and the second flow path; and
a movable body positioned at least partially within the second flow path;
wherein in a first position of the movable body, the second flow path is substantially closed by the movable body, the amount of flow through the at least one second outlet is substantially close to zero, and the amount of flow through the burner valve is less than in a second position;
wherein the movable body is configured such that movement between the first and second positions is controlled by a pressure of a fluid flowing to the nozzle.
19. The dual fuel heating assembly of claim 18, further comprising a biasing member configured to regulate the position of the movable body in response to the pressure of the fluid flowing through the nozzle.
20. The dual fuel heating assembly of claim 18, wherein the control valve is positioned in both the first flow path and the second flow path.
21. The dual fuel heating assembly of claim 18, wherein the heating assembly is part of a water heater, a fireplace, a gas oven, a BBQ, or a gas dryer.
US13/791,652 2011-04-08 2013-03-08 Heating system Active 2033-10-03 US9739389B2 (en)

Priority Applications (5)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US13/791,652 US9739389B2 (en) 2011-04-08 2013-03-08 Heating system
EP13813888.8A EP2867584A4 (en) 2012-07-02 2013-06-28 Heating system
PCT/US2013/048769 WO2014008142A1 (en) 2012-07-02 2013-06-28 Heating system
US15/175,799 US10222057B2 (en) 2011-04-08 2016-06-07 Dual fuel heater with selector valve
US16/238,414 US20190137097A1 (en) 2011-04-08 2019-01-02 Dual fuel selectable apparatus

Applications Claiming Priority (19)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US201161473714P 2011-04-08 2011-04-08
CN2011204016763U CN202360799U (en) 2011-10-20 2011-10-20 Double-gas source fuel gas control system
CN201120401676.3 2011-10-20
CN201120401676U 2011-10-20
US13/310,664 US8985094B2 (en) 2011-04-08 2011-12-02 Heating system
CN201220315268U 2012-07-02
CN201210224414.3 2012-07-02
CN201220314766.3 2012-07-02
CN2012102244143A CN102720863B (en) 2012-07-02 2012-07-02 Two-gas source gas valve
CN201210223977 2012-07-02
CN201220315268.0 2012-07-02
CN 201220314766 CN202708189U (en) 2012-07-02 2012-07-02 Dual-source gas valve
CN201210223977.0A CN102748504B (en) 2012-07-02 2012-07-02 Dual-gas supply gas valve
CN201220314766U 2012-07-02
CN201210224414 2012-07-02
CN201210223977.0 2012-07-02
CN 201220315268 CN202708209U (en) 2012-07-02 2012-07-02 Double gas supply gas valve
US201261748052P 2012-12-31 2012-12-31
US13/791,652 US9739389B2 (en) 2011-04-08 2013-03-08 Heating system

Related Parent Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US13/310,664 Continuation-In-Part US8985094B2 (en) 2011-04-08 2011-12-02 Heating system
US13/791,667 Continuation-In-Part US9523497B2 (en) 2011-04-08 2013-03-08 Dual fuel heater with selector valve

Related Child Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US13/791,667 Continuation-In-Part US9523497B2 (en) 2011-04-08 2013-03-08 Dual fuel heater with selector valve
US15/175,799 Continuation-In-Part US10222057B2 (en) 2011-04-08 2016-06-07 Dual fuel heater with selector valve

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20130186492A1 true US20130186492A1 (en) 2013-07-25
US9739389B2 US9739389B2 (en) 2017-08-22

Family

ID=48796243

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US13/791,652 Active 2033-10-03 US9739389B2 (en) 2011-04-08 2013-03-08 Heating system

Country Status (1)

Country Link
US (1) US9739389B2 (en)

Cited By (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20130059256A1 (en) * 2010-05-20 2013-03-07 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH Gas valve unit having two gas outlets
US20130101945A1 (en) * 2011-10-25 2013-04-25 Michael S. Mulberry Dual fuel heater
WO2016040851A1 (en) * 2014-09-11 2016-03-17 Colorado State University Research Foundation Side-feed forced-air biomass burning cookstove
US9423123B2 (en) 2013-03-02 2016-08-23 David Deng Safety pressure switch
CN106885006A (en) * 2017-03-20 2017-06-23 中山利特隆瓦斯器材有限公司 Baking box intake valve with gas versatility
US9752779B2 (en) 2013-03-02 2017-09-05 David Deng Heating assembly
US20180038592A1 (en) * 2016-08-04 2018-02-08 Hayward Industries, Inc. Gas Switching Device And Associated Methods
US11225807B2 (en) 2018-07-25 2022-01-18 Hayward Industries, Inc. Compact universal gas pool heater and associated methods

Families Citing this family (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
USD807921S1 (en) * 2015-03-05 2018-01-16 Jaroslaw Grzesiak Fuel heater block

Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3430655A (en) * 1967-04-11 1969-03-04 Forney Eng Co Monoblock valve
US20080153044A1 (en) * 2006-12-22 2008-06-26 David Deng Control valves for heaters and fireplace devices
US20120187318A1 (en) * 2011-01-26 2012-07-26 Yu-Li Chen Gas valve with improving safety structure

Family Cites Families (407)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE113680C (en)
US2899980A (en) 1959-08-18 Modulating valve
US188140A (en) 1877-03-06 Improvement in spring-seats
US743714A (en) 1903-07-23 1903-11-10 George A Fox Valve for vapor-stoves.
US1051072A (en) 1912-05-01 1913-01-21 Porte Mckeen Bradley Heater.
US1216529A (en) 1914-08-18 1917-02-20 Lewis T Wilcox Gas-burner.
US1589386A (en) 1922-04-10 1926-06-22 Philip S Harper Gas burner
US1729819A (en) 1924-06-04 1929-10-01 Campbell Engineering Company Pressure regulation
US1639115A (en) 1924-07-10 1927-08-16 Gas Res Co Stove
US1574234A (en) 1925-02-27 1926-02-23 Arthur B Cumner Means for draining motor-vehicle crank cases and the like
US1639780A (en) 1926-02-25 1927-08-23 Mulholland John Incandescent gas fire
US1697865A (en) 1927-10-29 1929-01-08 A W Cash Valve Mfg Corp Regulating valve for pressure control of hot-water heating systems
US1755639A (en) 1928-08-02 1930-04-22 David B Fawcett Pressure-regulating valve
US1860942A (en) 1930-03-18 1932-05-31 Albert W Morse Combination gas and oil burner
US1867110A (en) 1930-06-23 1932-07-12 Joseph A Signore Stove
US1961086A (en) 1930-08-04 1934-05-29 Silent Glow Oil Burner Corp Burner
US2054588A (en) 1933-06-22 1936-09-15 Thomas J Stephens Apparatus for burning liquid fuels
US2088685A (en) 1935-03-04 1937-08-03 Birch William Thomas Water pressure and relief valve
US2120864A (en) 1935-08-07 1938-06-14 Kagi Emil Gas-air mixing valve for burners
US2160264A (en) 1935-12-21 1939-05-30 Autogas Corp Heater
US2108299A (en) 1936-03-13 1938-02-15 Milwaukee Gas Specialty Co Gas cock
US2095064A (en) 1936-04-25 1937-10-05 Philip S Harper Gas valve
US2161523A (en) 1938-02-03 1939-06-06 American Stove Co Gas cock or valve
DE720854C (en) 1938-03-13 1942-05-18 Eisenwerk G Meurer Ag Device for setting a number of different usage temperatures for gas-heated baking and roasting ovens
US2231460A (en) 1938-08-06 1941-02-11 Elgin Softener Corp Multiport valve
US2319676A (en) 1940-05-09 1943-05-18 Milwaukee Gas Specialty Co Safety shutoff system
US2380956A (en) 1941-06-04 1945-08-07 Bastian Biessing Company Throwover regulator
US2397670A (en) 1941-12-01 1946-04-02 Phillips Petroleum Co Change-over valve for gas dispensing systems
US2354286A (en) 1942-09-14 1944-07-25 Phillips Petroleum Co Automatic change-over device
US2422368A (en) 1943-06-05 1947-06-17 Gen Controls Co Electromagnetic reset valve
US2518894A (en) 1945-06-14 1950-08-15 Union Carbide & Carbon Corp Automatic changeover mechanism
US2443892A (en) 1945-09-21 1948-06-22 Robertshaw Fulton Controls Co Safety control and ignition apparatus for gaseous fuel burners
US2556337A (en) 1946-01-12 1951-06-12 Gen Controls Co Reset valve
US2560245A (en) 1946-11-15 1951-07-10 Garrett Corp Two-port cooler
US2641273A (en) 1947-10-18 1953-06-09 C O Two Fire Equipment Co Changeover valve
US2464697A (en) 1948-02-13 1949-03-15 Gilbert & Barker Mfg Co Dual oil burner with common air and oil control
US2578042A (en) 1948-11-26 1951-12-11 Phillips Petroleum Co Automatic change-over and indicator valve
US2588485A (en) 1949-03-07 1952-03-11 Lucas Ltd Joseph Liquid fuel burner nozzle
US2685294A (en) 1949-04-11 1954-08-03 Gold Harold Wide range flow rate metering valve
US2630821A (en) 1949-04-27 1953-03-10 Weatherhead Co Automatic changeover valve and signal
US2693812A (en) 1949-10-31 1954-11-09 James S Jones Fuel gas tank switch-over device
US2687140A (en) 1950-10-28 1954-08-24 Weatherhead Co Change-over regulator
US2661157A (en) 1950-11-15 1953-12-01 Norman Products Company Apparatus for the selective burning of different type gaseous fuels embodying a common burner element
US2716470A (en) 1951-01-24 1955-08-30 Nevin S Focht Shock absorbers
US2678066A (en) 1951-05-15 1954-05-11 J C Carter Company Fluid flow control device
US2750997A (en) 1952-10-17 1956-06-19 Surface Combustion Corp Dual fuel apparatus for heaters
US3032096A (en) 1953-05-01 1962-05-01 Minor W Stoul Combustion apparatus
US2817362A (en) 1954-02-01 1957-12-24 Bendix Aviat Corp Modulating high pressure air valve
US2907348A (en) 1954-02-26 1959-10-06 gerteis
US2829674A (en) 1954-06-11 1958-04-08 August L Segelhorst Automatic fluid control means
US2844166A (en) 1954-11-03 1958-07-22 Deere Mfg Co Hydraulic detent for valve
US2905361A (en) 1956-01-03 1959-09-22 Firestone Tire & Rubber Co Device and method for measuring and dispensing fluids
US2853098A (en) 1956-02-20 1958-09-23 Roland W Fritzsche Self compensating flow regulator
US3001541A (en) 1957-03-18 1961-09-26 Weatherhead Co Automatic regulator assembly
US2969924A (en) 1958-04-04 1961-01-31 Orenda Engines Ltd Fuel nozzles for large flow range
US2966920A (en) 1959-02-13 1961-01-03 Phillips Petroleum Co Automatic change-over valve
US3083721A (en) 1959-05-25 1963-04-02 American Radiator & Standard Constant mass flow regulator
US3067773A (en) 1959-05-29 1962-12-11 Marquardt Corp Fluid flow controller
US3054529A (en) 1960-04-22 1962-09-18 Bastian Blessing Co Gas dispensing system
US3115330A (en) 1960-05-23 1963-12-24 Otis Eng Co Pressure controlled pilot valve operating device
US3100504A (en) 1961-09-28 1963-08-13 Jelrus Technical Products Corp Valved apparatus of the fluid-pressure responsive type
US3139879A (en) 1961-12-06 1964-07-07 Hupp Corp Gas burning heaters
US3120243A (en) 1962-02-05 1964-02-04 Fawick Corp Flow regulating valve with extended movement
US3207169A (en) 1962-11-23 1965-09-21 Weatherhead Co Snap action indicator for changeover valves
US3244193A (en) 1964-02-24 1966-04-05 Gen Gas Light Co Multiple valve units
US3331392A (en) 1964-10-15 1967-07-18 Andrew D Davidson Clear plastic fuel manifold
US3357443A (en) 1965-03-15 1967-12-12 Grove Valve & Regulator Co Fluid pressure regulator
US3282323A (en) 1965-04-14 1966-11-01 Gen Electric Viscosity responsive devices
GB1147073A (en) 1965-07-01 1969-04-02 Teknova As Improvements in and relating to automatically regulated change-over valves for bottled gas systems with two gas containers
US3504663A (en) 1965-10-21 1970-04-07 Smithkline Corp Air flow control
US3451421A (en) 1966-07-22 1969-06-24 Controls Co Of America Convertible modulating pressure regulator
US3417779A (en) 1967-01-09 1968-12-24 Perkin Elmer Corp Selectable concentration gas mixing apparatus
US3386656A (en) 1967-03-06 1968-06-04 Harper Wyman Co Two burner oven systems and controls
DE1650303A1 (en) 1967-10-21 1970-09-10 Bosch Gmbh Robert Pressure control valve
US3550613A (en) 1968-06-13 1970-12-29 Theodore C Barber Automatic fluid flow control apparatus
US3630652A (en) 1968-08-22 1971-12-28 Borg Warner Liquid fuel burner system and fuel control
GB1251804A (en) 1969-03-03 1971-11-03
US3552430A (en) 1969-05-07 1971-01-05 Emerson Electric Co Stepped opening diaphragm gas valve
US3578243A (en) 1969-06-13 1971-05-11 Emerson Electric Co Stepped-flow gas valve
US3633606A (en) 1969-08-07 1972-01-11 Air Reduction Automatic changeover valve
US3590806A (en) 1969-08-21 1971-07-06 Bernzomatic Corp Portable l. p. gas space heater
DE1959677B1 (en) 1969-11-28 1971-05-06 Wiest Fa Richard NOZZLE FOR ALL GAS BURNERS
SE335653B (en) 1969-12-23 1971-06-01 Tico Ab
US3654948A (en) 1970-11-02 1972-04-11 Honeywell Inc Balanced pressure regulator
NL7016724A (en) 1970-11-14 1972-05-16
AT317639B (en) 1971-01-19 1974-09-10 Messer Griesheim Gmbh Line connection to gas burners such as cutting torches, scarfing burners or preheating burners
US3734132A (en) 1971-06-25 1973-05-22 Hoerbiger Ventilwerke Ag Shuttle valve
BE787878A (en) 1971-08-23 1973-02-23 W Apparatenfabriek N V As RHEATING MEDIUM ALSO FOR HEATING USE WATER MAY BE A DEVICE FOR CENTRAL HEATING WHERE THE VEHICLE
US3814573A (en) 1971-12-27 1974-06-04 Int Magna Corp Radiant heater burner construction
JPS4888526A (en) 1972-02-04 1973-11-20
FR2187094A5 (en) 1972-05-31 1974-01-11 Guigues Frederi
US3768514A (en) 1972-06-23 1973-10-30 Gsw Appliances Ltd Valve structure
US3747629A (en) 1972-06-28 1973-07-24 Essex International Inc Convertible fluid pressure regulator
CH561881A5 (en) 1972-09-06 1975-05-15 Massi Giovanni
US3804109A (en) 1972-12-01 1974-04-16 Chrysler Corp Vacuum bias switch
US3800830A (en) 1973-01-11 1974-04-02 B Etter Metering valve
US3825027A (en) 1973-06-11 1974-07-23 J Henderson Automatic multiple fuel tank control valve
US3829279A (en) 1973-08-20 1974-08-13 Modine Mfg Co Dual fuel burner apparatus
US3884413A (en) 1974-03-14 1975-05-20 Harper Wyman Co Oven control
US3939871A (en) 1975-01-28 1976-02-24 Rockwell International Corporation Burner block assembly
US3977423A (en) 1975-03-14 1976-08-31 Phillips Petroleum Company Valve control apparatus and method
US4005724A (en) 1975-04-04 1977-02-01 The Weatherhead Company Tilt responsive valve
US4005726A (en) 1975-06-24 1977-02-01 Fowler Herbert H Thermomagnetic valve
USD243694S (en) 1975-07-16 1977-03-15 Bruest Industries, Inc. Portable catalytic heater
US3957114A (en) 1975-07-18 1976-05-18 Halliburton Company Well treating method using an indexing automatic fill-up float valve
US4021190A (en) 1975-08-20 1977-05-03 Rockwell International Corporation Burner block valve assembly
US4157238A (en) 1975-12-16 1979-06-05 Berkum Robert A Van Control system for combustion apparatus and method
US4081235A (en) 1976-06-23 1978-03-28 International Telephone And Telegraph Corporation Valve interlock
US4067354A (en) 1976-07-19 1978-01-10 Textron Inc. Gas pressure regulator having high and low pressure shutoff means
US4146056A (en) 1976-11-11 1979-03-27 Bascom Frank Buchanan Steam and fuel oil control and purge valve
US4101257A (en) 1977-06-16 1978-07-18 Combustion Unlimited Incorporated Pilot gas conservation system for flare stacks
GB1591471A (en) 1977-06-18 1981-06-24 Hart J C H Electromagnetic actuators
US4171712A (en) 1977-10-17 1979-10-23 Paccar Inc. Fuel tank venting valve
US4181154A (en) 1978-02-27 1980-01-01 Ara Services, Inc. Deflector valve for fluids
US4301825A (en) 1978-12-08 1981-11-24 Ford Motor Company Fuel flow control valve assembly
US4290450A (en) 1979-03-28 1981-09-22 Eaton Corporation Fluid mixing valve
US4251025A (en) 1979-07-12 1981-02-17 Honeywell Inc. Furnace control using induced draft blower and exhaust stack flow rate sensing
US4348172A (en) 1980-07-28 1982-09-07 Miller Harry C Portable propane gas hand torch
JPS5765469A (en) 1980-10-04 1982-04-21 Kitamura Gokin Seisakusho:Kk Branch water and hot water supply apparatus which can automatically regulate hydraulic pressure uniformly
US4566488A (en) 1980-10-28 1986-01-28 Grove Valve And Regulator Company Multi-stage pressure reducing system
US4355659A (en) 1981-01-08 1982-10-26 The Hilliard Corp. Rotary plug valve
US4359284A (en) 1981-03-17 1982-11-16 Honeywell Inc. Method and apparatus for determining the Wobbe index of gaseous fuels
US4386625A (en) 1981-05-07 1983-06-07 Ex-Cell-O Corporation Fuel transfer valve
US4465456A (en) 1981-08-24 1984-08-14 Foster-Miller Inc. Variable firing rate burner
JPS58219320A (en) 1982-06-14 1983-12-20 Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd Combustion gas feeder
US4453568A (en) 1982-06-21 1984-06-12 Otis Engineering Corporation Gas control system
US4474166A (en) 1982-06-21 1984-10-02 Koehring Company Wick heaters
JPS599425A (en) 1982-07-07 1984-01-18 Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd Feeding apparatus for combustion gas
US4454892A (en) 1982-09-13 1984-06-19 Combustion Engineering, Inc. Atomizing oil valve improvement
US4515554A (en) 1983-01-05 1985-05-07 S.A.R.L Centre D'etude Et De Realisation D'equipment Et De Materiel C.E.R.E.M. Ignition and fuel supply system for a gas-fueled heat-radiator
GB8312510D0 (en) 1983-05-06 1983-06-08 Spectus Ltd Fluid injectors
US4538644A (en) 1983-06-09 1985-09-03 Applied Power Inc. Pressure regulator
DE3345561A1 (en) 1983-12-16 1985-07-11 Gräber, Peter, 7541 Straubenhardt GAS PRESSURE REGULATOR-SAFETY SOLENOID VALVE COMBINATION
US4782814A (en) 1984-02-01 1988-11-08 The Coleman Company, Inc. Burner for radiant heater
JPS60218526A (en) 1984-04-14 1985-11-01 Rinnai Corp Safety device for combustion of gas instrument
US4610425A (en) 1984-05-24 1986-09-09 Robertshaw Controls Company Fuel control valve construction, parts therefor and methods of making the same
US4653530A (en) 1984-05-24 1987-03-31 Robertshaw Controls Company Fuel control value construction, parts therefor and methods of making the same
DE3432007C1 (en) 1984-08-31 1986-01-09 Hermann Hemscheidt Maschinenfabrik Gmbh & Co, 5600 Wuppertal Pressure relief valve for hydraulic longwall construction
US4683864A (en) 1985-04-11 1987-08-04 Whitehead Engineered Products, Inc. Fuel routing systems for fuel-injected engines
US4625762A (en) 1985-11-08 1986-12-02 Weatherford U.S., Inc. Auto-fill flow valve
US4718448A (en) 1986-03-24 1988-01-12 Emerson Electric Co. Gas valve
DE3622527C1 (en) 1986-07-04 1987-05-07 Draegerwerk Ag Valve for gas containers
DE3625222A1 (en) 1986-07-25 1988-02-04 Index Werke Kg Hahn & Tessky PRESSURE REGULATOR FOR HYDRAULICALLY CONTROLLED MACHINE TOOLS
KR900006243B1 (en) 1986-10-16 1990-08-27 린나이 가부시기가이샤 Burner apparatus
US5044390A (en) 1986-12-05 1991-09-03 Robertshaw Controls Company Cam operated fuel valve
US4787414A (en) 1986-12-05 1988-11-29 Robertshaw Controls Company Fuel control valve construction, parts therefor and methods of making the same
DE3700233A1 (en) 1987-01-07 1988-07-21 Buderus Ag Nozzle in atmospheric gas burners
US5027854A (en) 1987-07-15 1991-07-02 Robertshaw Controls Company Fuel control device, fuel control system using the device and method of making the device
DE3739048C2 (en) 1987-11-17 2001-08-09 Buerkert Gmbh Multi-way valve
US4848133A (en) 1987-12-14 1989-07-18 United Technologies Corporation Valving apparatus
US4850530A (en) 1987-12-15 1989-07-25 Johnson Service Company Gas valve using modular construction
US4895184A (en) 1987-12-21 1990-01-23 Abbey Harold Fluid servo system for fuel injection and other applications
US4944324A (en) 1988-08-31 1990-07-31 Iwatani Sangyo Kabushiki Kaisha Fuel gas supply equipment with abnormal offensive odor suppressing filter
DE3928179C2 (en) 1988-11-11 1994-01-20 Samsung Electronics Co Ltd All gas burner
US4930538A (en) 1989-01-17 1990-06-05 Memron, Inc. Compact manifold valve
US4874006A (en) 1989-01-26 1989-10-17 Kohler Co. Diverter valve and vacuum breaker usable therewith
GB8902992D0 (en) 1989-02-10 1989-03-30 Basic Engineering Ltd Apparatus for simulating flames
US4958771A (en) 1989-06-21 1990-09-25 General Motors Corporation Injection nozzle
JPH0330024U (en) 1989-07-20 1991-03-25
US5025990A (en) 1989-10-12 1991-06-25 Universal Enterprises, Inc. Adjustable gas nozzle
JP2952928B2 (en) 1990-01-31 1999-09-27 松下電器産業株式会社 Gas control device
GB2241180A (en) 1990-02-22 1991-08-28 Rolls Royce Plc Automatic retractable fluid delivery valve
US5048563A (en) 1990-03-14 1991-09-17 Itt Corporation Steam and fuel oil supply and purge valve with cooling steam feature
US5090451A (en) 1990-03-14 1992-02-25 Itt Corporation Combination steam and fuel oil supply and purge valve with recirculation feature
US5063956A (en) 1990-10-31 1991-11-12 Union Carbide Industrial Gases Technology Corporation Fluid delivery pressure control system
JP2660188B2 (en) 1990-11-08 1997-10-08 ティ・エフ・シィ株式会社 Three-way switching valve
DE4042084A1 (en) 1990-12-28 1992-07-02 Eberspaecher J SOLENOID VALVE FOR VOLUME CONTROL
US5095950A (en) 1991-04-16 1992-03-17 Hallberg John E Fluid mixing apparatus with progressive valve means
US5245997A (en) 1991-12-05 1993-09-21 Respirator Research, Inc. Valve cartridge assembly for a pressure regulator of supplied air breathing apparatus
US5278936A (en) 1991-12-23 1994-01-11 Steve Shao Thermostatically controlled portable electric space heater with automatic temperature setback for energy saving
JPH05256422A (en) 1992-03-12 1993-10-05 Sanyo Electric Co Ltd Gas combustion device
US5251823A (en) 1992-08-10 1993-10-12 Combustion Tec, Inc. Adjustable atomizing orifice liquid fuel burner
US5239979A (en) 1992-11-23 1993-08-31 Maurice Paul E Radiant heater
IL106616A (en) 1993-08-08 1997-06-10 Elhanan Tavor Atomizer
US5353766A (en) 1993-09-08 1994-10-11 Cummins Engine Company, Inc. Distributor for a high pressure fuel system
CN2167287Y (en) 1993-05-17 1994-06-01 盛经纬 Burner for multi-gas source universal gas range
DE4317981A1 (en) 1993-05-28 1994-12-01 Ranco Inc Gas-air ratio control device for a temperature control loop for gas appliances
US5544538A (en) 1993-06-04 1996-08-13 Nippondenso Co., Ltd. Hydraulic controller for automatic transmission having automatic manual control and automatic failsafe operation
SE501377C2 (en) 1993-06-17 1995-01-30 Ingvar Baecklund Three-way diaphragm valve assembly
EP0636835B1 (en) 1993-07-30 1999-11-24 United Technologies Corporation Swirl mixer for a combustor
US5326029A (en) 1993-08-05 1994-07-05 Robertshaw Controls Company Control system, control device therefor and methods of making the same
US5591024A (en) 1993-08-10 1997-01-07 Appalachian Stove & Fabricators, Inc. Assembly for controlling the flow of gas for gas fired artificial logs
US5470018A (en) 1993-08-24 1995-11-28 Desa International, Inc. Thermostatically controlled gas heater
US5413141A (en) 1994-01-07 1995-05-09 Honeywell Inc. Two-stage gas valve with natural/LP gas conversion capability
US5379794A (en) 1994-01-25 1995-01-10 Emerson Electric Co. Gas control valve having polymeric material body combined with thermally responsive gas shutoff valve having metallic body
DE4407609A1 (en) 1994-03-08 1995-09-14 Grw Druckmestechnik Teltow Gmb Valve battery as a connection module for differential pressure transmitters
US5458294A (en) 1994-04-04 1995-10-17 G & L Development, Inc. Control system for controlling gas fuel flow
US5520206A (en) 1994-06-30 1996-05-28 Deville; Wayne E. Exhaust reduction system for control valves
US5542609A (en) 1994-07-06 1996-08-06 The Babcock & Wilcox Company Extended wear life low pressure drop right angle single exit orifice dual-fluid atomizer with replaceable wear materials
US5944045A (en) 1994-07-12 1999-08-31 Ransburg Corporation Solvent circuit
US5584680A (en) 1994-07-28 1996-12-17 The Majestic Products Company Unvented gas log set
US5452709A (en) 1994-08-18 1995-09-26 G.I.W. Management, L.L.C. Tiered-logs gas-burning heaters or fireplace insert
US5567141A (en) 1994-12-30 1996-10-22 Combustion Tec, Inc. Oxy-liquid fuel combustion process and apparatus
DE19500263C2 (en) 1995-01-06 1997-09-18 Cramer Gmbh Cooking apparatus with at least one covered hob and a radiant burner unit
KR960029711A (en) 1995-01-25 1996-08-17 해롤드 제이. 화운츠 Radiant burner
GB2298039B (en) 1995-02-15 1998-12-30 Baxi Heating Ltd A heating appliance
USD391345S (en) 1995-02-28 1998-02-24 Valor Limited Gas fired heater
DE19536084A1 (en) 1995-09-28 1997-04-03 Bosch Gmbh Robert Liquid filter with built-in pressure regulator
DE19539246A1 (en) 1995-10-21 1997-04-24 Asea Brown Boveri Airblast atomizer nozzle
US5634491A (en) 1995-10-23 1997-06-03 Benedict; Charles Flow control valve assembly
DE19543018A1 (en) 1995-11-18 1997-05-22 Stiebel Eltron Gmbh & Co Kg Regulator for gas burner and its nozzle
US5674065A (en) 1996-01-22 1997-10-07 Op S.R.L. Apparatus for controlling the supply of gas to and heat from unvented gas heating appliances
US5814121A (en) 1996-02-08 1998-09-29 The Boc Group, Inc. Oxygen-gas fuel burner and glass forehearth containing the oxygen-gas fuel burner
US6354078B1 (en) 1996-02-22 2002-03-12 Volvo Personvagnar Ab Device and method for reducing emissions in catalytic converter exhaust systems
US5653257A (en) 1996-03-11 1997-08-05 Dresser Industries Flow control limiter
US5807098A (en) 1996-04-26 1998-09-15 Desa International, Inc. Gas heater with alarm system
JP3726168B2 (en) 1996-05-10 2005-12-14 忠弘 大見 Fluid control device
US5642580A (en) 1996-05-17 1997-07-01 Dimplex North America Limited Flame simulating assembley
KR100217526B1 (en) 1996-05-28 1999-09-01 도오다 고오이찌로 Fluid-flow control valve
JP3462662B2 (en) 1996-06-06 2003-11-05 日本ランコ株式会社 solenoid valve
JP3650859B2 (en) 1996-06-25 2005-05-25 忠弘 大見 Circuit breaker and fluid control apparatus having the same
DE19637666A1 (en) 1996-09-16 1998-03-26 Schott Glaswerke Gas-pressure regulator for cooker with burners under glass or ceramic surface
JPH10141656A (en) 1996-11-06 1998-05-29 Paloma Ind Ltd Hot-water supplier
US5944257A (en) 1996-11-15 1999-08-31 Honeywell Inc. Bulb-operated modulating gas valve with minimum bypass
US5906197A (en) 1996-11-18 1999-05-25 Superior Fireplace Company Gas fireplace
US6050081A (en) 1997-02-12 2000-04-18 Jansens Aircraft Systems Controls Air purging fuel valve for turbine engine
TW377835U (en) 1997-04-03 1999-12-21 Smc Corp Pressure regulating valve used for base type transfer valve
US5838243A (en) 1997-04-10 1998-11-17 Gallo; Eugene Combination carbon monoxide sensor and combustion heating device shut-off system
US5941699A (en) 1997-05-08 1999-08-24 Mr. Heater, Inc. Shutoff system for gas fired appliances
US5795145A (en) 1997-05-22 1998-08-18 Desa International Method and apparatus for controlling gas flow to ceramic plaque burners of differing sizes
DE19730617A1 (en) 1997-07-17 1999-01-21 Abb Research Ltd Pressure atomizer nozzle
US6268160B1 (en) 1997-08-28 2001-07-31 Medical Research Council Method of screening for anti-malarial compounds
US5966937A (en) 1997-10-09 1999-10-19 United Technologies Corporation Radial inlet swirler with twisted vanes for fuel injector
US5987889A (en) 1997-10-09 1999-11-23 United Technologies Corporation Fuel injector for producing outer shear layer flame for combustion
FR2772118B1 (en) 1997-12-05 2001-08-17 Saint Gobain Vitrage COMBUSTION PROCESS AND FUEL SPRAY BURNER IMPLEMENTING SUCH A METHOD
US5865618A (en) 1997-12-10 1999-02-02 Hiebert; Jacob F. Self-regulating forced air heater
JPH11192166A (en) 1997-12-26 1999-07-21 Harman Co Ltd Gas appliance
US5988204A (en) 1998-01-26 1999-11-23 Emerson Electric Co. Adjustable fluid flow regulator
US5931661A (en) 1998-02-26 1999-08-03 Hearth Technologies Inc. Adjustable air/gas shutter valve
DE19908875A1 (en) 1998-03-11 1999-09-16 Hoerbiger Ventilwerke Gmbh Gas valve with electromagnetic operation e.g. fuel injection valve for gas engine for stationary applications or for commercial vehicle
US6026849A (en) 1998-06-01 2000-02-22 Thordarson; Petur High pressure regulated flow controller
JP3953192B2 (en) 1998-06-02 2007-08-08 パロマ工業株式会社 Combustion device
US5971746A (en) 1998-09-02 1999-10-26 Arkla Dual pressure gas supply controller system for gas-burning apparatus
US7021603B2 (en) 1998-10-08 2006-04-04 Wladyslaw Wygnaski Electromagnetic actuator and integrated actuator and fluid flow control valve
US6000427A (en) 1998-10-19 1999-12-14 Hutton; Peter B. Manifold for use with dual pressure sensor units
JP2000234738A (en) 1999-02-10 2000-08-29 Osaka Gas Co Ltd Gas cooking stove
US6135063A (en) 1999-03-11 2000-10-24 Welden; David P. Dual regulator direct-fired steam generator
US6162048A (en) 1999-06-04 2000-12-19 Robert Howard Griffioen Dual orifice pilot assembly
US6622743B1 (en) 1999-08-09 2003-09-23 Allied Healthcare Products, Inc. Surge prevention device
ATE329206T1 (en) 1999-12-02 2006-06-15 Sit La Precisa Spa VALVE UNIT FOR CONTROLLING THE DELIVERY OF A FUEL GAS
US6340298B1 (en) 1999-12-06 2002-01-22 Mr. Heater Corporation Gas-fired portable unvented infrared heater for recreational and commercial use
US6884065B2 (en) 1999-12-06 2005-04-26 Mr. Heater, Inc. Gas fired portable unvented infrared heater
US6354072B1 (en) 1999-12-10 2002-03-12 General Electric Company Methods and apparatus for decreasing combustor emissions
US6431957B1 (en) 2000-01-25 2002-08-13 Parker-Hannifin Corporation Directional flow control valve with recirculation for chemical-mechanical polishing slurries
CN2421550Y (en) 2000-01-28 2001-02-28 南京斯奥欣电气具有限公司 Anoxycausis protector
US6347644B1 (en) 2000-03-03 2002-02-19 Chemical Engineering Corporation Bypass valve for water treatment system
CN2430629Y (en) 2000-06-09 2001-05-16 赖美芳 Igniting and gas regulator for oil and gas burning change over switch and common range
US6244223B1 (en) 2000-09-25 2001-06-12 Rheem Manufacturing Company Power burner type fuel-fired water heater with quick change manifold assembly
US6832628B2 (en) 2000-10-11 2004-12-21 Flowmatrix, Inc. Variable pressure regulated flow controllers
US6607854B1 (en) 2000-11-13 2003-08-19 Honeywell International Inc. Three-wheel air turbocompressor for PEM fuel cell systems
DE10109948B4 (en) 2001-03-01 2008-02-21 J. Eberspächer GmbH & Co. KG metering pump
JPWO2002077545A1 (en) 2001-03-27 2004-07-15 住友重機械工業株式会社 High and low pressure gas switching valve of refrigerator
US20040226600A1 (en) 2001-04-18 2004-11-18 Edward Starer Gas control assembly for controlling the supply of gas to unvented gas appliances
US20020160326A1 (en) 2001-04-26 2002-10-31 David Deng Gas pilot system and method having improved oxygen level detection capability and gas fueled device including the same
US20020160325A1 (en) 2001-04-26 2002-10-31 David Deng Gas pilot system and method having improved oxygen level detection capability and gas fueled device including the same
ES1049454Y (en) 2001-06-15 2002-04-16 Fagor S Coop THERMOSTATIC GAS VALVE WITH PERMANENT PILOT.
US20030010952A1 (en) 2001-07-16 2003-01-16 Hermes Morete Gas valve
US6543235B1 (en) 2001-08-08 2003-04-08 Cfd Research Corporation Single-circuit fuel injector for gas turbine combustors
JP4604269B2 (en) 2001-08-08 2011-01-05 パロマ工業株式会社 Gas burning appliances
US6402052B1 (en) 2001-08-24 2002-06-11 General Motors Corporation Pressure sensitive windshield washer nozzle
JP4604270B2 (en) 2001-08-29 2011-01-05 パロマ工業株式会社 Gas burning appliances
JP2003074838A (en) 2001-09-05 2003-03-12 Paloma Ind Ltd Combustion control device
US6883542B2 (en) 2001-09-20 2005-04-26 Max Co., Ltd. Compressed air retrieval device of compressor
JP2003099131A (en) 2001-09-26 2003-04-04 Kanematsu Nnk Corp Pressure reducing device and compressed gas supplying device
FR2834547B1 (en) 2002-01-08 2006-08-04 Gaz De Petrole SLIDING INJECTOR GAS APPLIANCE
FR2834770B1 (en) 2002-01-11 2004-06-25 Gce Sas SHUTTERING DEVICE FOR USE IN A VALVE DEVICE FOR A PRESSURE GAS BOTTLE
US6832625B2 (en) 2002-04-11 2004-12-21 Michael Brent Ford Electrically operable valve assembly having an integral pressure regulator
US6910496B2 (en) 2002-04-15 2005-06-28 Honeywell International, Inc. Gas conversion assembly
US6772791B2 (en) 2002-05-17 2004-08-10 Mac Valves, Inc. Directly operated pneumatic valve having an air assist return
US6779333B2 (en) 2002-05-21 2004-08-24 Conocophillips Company Dual fuel power generation system
JP2004125262A (en) 2002-10-02 2004-04-22 Rinnai Corp Hybrid hot air heater
US6786194B2 (en) 2002-10-31 2004-09-07 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Variable fuel delivery system and method
US7322819B2 (en) 2003-03-06 2008-01-29 Hni Technologies Inc. Backlighting system for a fireplace
US6705342B2 (en) 2003-05-16 2004-03-16 Emerson Electric Co. Modulating gas valve with natural/LP gas conversion capability
US6938634B2 (en) 2003-05-30 2005-09-06 Robertshaw Controls Company Fuel control mechanism and associated method of use
US6941962B2 (en) 2003-05-30 2005-09-13 Robertshaw Controls Company Convertible control device capable of regulating fluid pressure for multiple fluid types and associated method of use
JP2004360713A (en) 2003-06-02 2004-12-24 Shinwa Sangyo Co Ltd Gas cock
DE10325202A1 (en) 2003-06-04 2005-01-20 Eaton Fluid Power Gmbh Pressure-dependent shut-off valve and hydraulic system with such
JP4119327B2 (en) 2003-08-04 2008-07-16 本田技研工業株式会社 Engine fuel supply control device
ES2245206B1 (en) 2003-12-17 2007-02-01 Fagor, S.Coop. GAS VALVE WITH LINEAR REGULATION FOR GAS BURNERS.
US7013886B2 (en) 2003-12-26 2006-03-21 David Deng Plastic shell heater
US6904873B1 (en) 2004-01-20 2005-06-14 Rheem Manufacturing Company Dual fuel boiler
US20050167530A1 (en) 2004-01-30 2005-08-04 Ward Kenneth R. Mechanically sealed adjustable gas nozzle
ES1056724Y (en) 2004-01-30 2004-08-16 Fagor S Coop CONTROL OF A GAS BURNER IN A COOKING OVEN.
ES1056897Y (en) 2004-03-03 2004-09-01 Fagor S Coop GAS DISTRIBUTOR GROUP WITH ROTATING TAPES FOR A COOKING DEVICE.
US20050208443A1 (en) 2004-03-17 2005-09-22 Bachinski Thomas J Heating appliance control system
US7146997B2 (en) 2004-03-29 2006-12-12 Siemens Vdo Automotive Corporation Regulator with flow diffuser
US7386981B2 (en) 2004-03-31 2008-06-17 Honeywell International Inc. Method and apparatus generating multiple pressure signals in a fuel system
US7322375B2 (en) 2004-04-30 2008-01-29 Vanderbilt University High bandwidth rotary servo valves
US7251940B2 (en) 2004-04-30 2007-08-07 United Technologies Corporation Air assist fuel injector for a combustor
ES1057463Y (en) 2004-05-20 2004-11-16 Fagor S Coop GAS DISTRIBUTOR GROUP WITH A MOUNTING DEVICE IN A COOKING DEVICE.
ES1057837Y (en) 2004-06-02 2005-01-16 Fagor S Coop GAS TAP FOR A KITCHEN APPLIANCE, WITH A DRIVE SHAFT COVER.
US8025029B2 (en) 2004-06-12 2011-09-27 Gea Farm Technologies, Inc. Automatic dairy animal milker unit backflusher and teat dip applicator system and method
US8033247B2 (en) 2004-06-12 2011-10-11 Gea Farm Technologies, Inc. Automatic dairy animal milker unit backflusher and teat dip applicator system and method
US7299824B2 (en) 2004-07-01 2007-11-27 Golan Iian Z Multiple-mode fluid valve
US7143783B2 (en) 2004-08-13 2006-12-05 Siegfried Emke Fuel tank cap safety valve with splash control and overpressure release
US7210501B2 (en) 2004-09-29 2007-05-01 Mac Valves, Inc. Directly operated pneumatic valve having a differential assist return
ES1058644Y (en) 2004-10-08 2005-05-01 Fagor S Coop ELECTRONIC VALVE OF REGULATION OF A GAS FLOW FOR COOKING.
ES2278481B1 (en) 2004-10-14 2008-04-16 Fagor, S.Coop. HYDRAULIC DISTRIBUTOR FOR A CLOTHING WASHER.
US20070215223A1 (en) 2004-10-15 2007-09-20 Gt Development Corporation Selector valve
ES2290654T3 (en) 2004-12-29 2008-02-16 Coprecitec, S.L. CONTROL SYSTEM FOR A GAS COOKING DEVICE.
US20060154194A1 (en) 2005-01-11 2006-07-13 Bill Panther Adjustable air shutter for a gas burner
FR2880961B1 (en) 2005-01-18 2007-02-23 Spirotechnique Sa BREATHABLE GAS REGULATOR UNDER PRESSURE
US7228872B2 (en) 2005-01-18 2007-06-12 Mills Douglas W Nitrous oxide and fuel control valve for nitrous oxide injection system
US7225830B1 (en) 2005-02-09 2007-06-05 Kershaw Charles H Fluid control valve
US20050202361A1 (en) 2005-02-10 2005-09-15 Iniqo Albizuri Multi-gas cooker, with a rotary valve provided with interchangeable regulating means
ES1059642Y (en) 2005-02-10 2005-09-01 Fagor S Coop ROTATING VALVE MOUNTED ON A MULTI-GAS COOKING DEVICE
US20060201496A1 (en) 2005-02-22 2006-09-14 Evo, Inc. Cooking apparatus for use with a plurality of fuels
US7367352B2 (en) 2005-02-22 2008-05-06 Voss Automotive Gmbh Multiway valve arrangement
US7395818B2 (en) 2005-04-21 2008-07-08 Walbro Engine Management, L.L.C. Multi-gaseous fuel control device for a combustion engine with a carburetor
US7487888B1 (en) 2005-07-15 2009-02-10 Pierre Jr Lloyd A Fluid dispensing apparatus
DE602005009818D1 (en) 2005-07-20 2008-10-30 Coprecitec Sl Connection consisting of a pipe, a seal and a drain pipe of a washing machine liquor container
ES2304269B1 (en) 2005-08-03 2009-07-17 Alberto Bellomo GAS DISTRIBUTOR FOR A KITCHEN, WITH A TUBE CLOSURE.
CN2844777Y (en) 2005-08-25 2006-12-06 成都前锋电子电器集团股份有限公司 Low-water-pressure starting water-vapor gear of gas water heater and gas water heater
US20070044856A1 (en) 2005-08-31 2007-03-01 Specialty Plastics Applications, Llc Diverter valve for water systems
DE602005008744D1 (en) 2005-09-23 2008-09-18 Coprecitec Sl Drain pump of a household appliance
ES1061777Y (en) 2005-12-02 2006-07-16 Coprecitec Sl REGULATOR OF A DUAL GAS PRESSURE FOR AN APPLIANCES.
US20070154856A1 (en) 2006-01-03 2007-07-05 Raymond Hallit Dual fuel boiler with backflow-preventing valve arrangement
DE102006009496A1 (en) 2006-02-27 2007-08-30 Isphording Germany Gmbh Valve arrangement for gas installation, has gas outlet lowered and/or closed by using valve unit that is arranged in shank, where linear motor of valve unit is designed as actuating drive, and valve unit is directly arranged on shank
ES1062235Y (en) 2006-03-07 2006-08-16 Coprecitec Sl "GAS COOKING DEVICE WITH AN ORIENTABLE CONTROL PANEL"
US7523762B2 (en) 2006-03-22 2009-04-28 Honeywell International Inc. Modulating gas valves and systems
ATE552372T1 (en) 2006-04-07 2012-04-15 Coprecitec Sl SENSOR DEVICE FOR HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE
US7607426B2 (en) 2006-05-17 2009-10-27 David Deng Dual fuel heater
US20070277803A1 (en) 2006-05-17 2007-12-06 David Deng Heater
US7434447B2 (en) 2006-05-17 2008-10-14 David Deng Oxygen depletion sensor
US7677236B2 (en) 2006-05-17 2010-03-16 David Deng Heater configured to operate with a first or second fuel
US8241034B2 (en) 2007-03-14 2012-08-14 Continental Appliances Inc. Fuel selection valve assemblies
US8152515B2 (en) 2007-03-15 2012-04-10 Continental Appliances Inc Fuel selectable heating devices
US8011920B2 (en) 2006-12-22 2011-09-06 David Deng Valve assemblies for heating devices
CN100383444C (en) 2006-06-23 2008-04-23 南京普鲁卡姆电器有限公司 Valve for switching double gas supplies in use for fuel gas heating apparatus
CA2658026C (en) 2006-07-28 2013-07-16 Federico Pavin A device for controlling the delivery of a combustible gas to a burner apparatus
ES1063644Y (en) 2006-08-07 2007-02-16 Coprecitec Sl GAS DISTRIBUTOR FOR COOKING, WITH INTEGRATED FAUCETS.
US7591257B2 (en) 2006-09-07 2009-09-22 Generac Power Systems, Inc. Fuel selection device
CN201013968Y (en) 2006-10-16 2008-01-30 彭江 Wing-air linkage controlling valve
ES1064333Y (en) 2006-11-24 2007-06-01 Coprecitec Sl "GAS COOKING DEVICE WITH AN HIDDEN CONTROL PANEL"
CN200979025Y (en) 2006-12-05 2007-11-21 南京普鲁卡姆电器有限公司 Gas warmer and double-control valve for gas fireplace
US7533656B2 (en) 2006-12-06 2009-05-19 Delphi Technologies, Inc. Exhaust valve arrangement and a fuel system incorporating an exhaust valve arrangement
GB0624945D0 (en) 2006-12-14 2007-01-24 Microgen Energy Ltd A heating system
US8545216B2 (en) 2006-12-22 2013-10-01 Continental Appliances, Inc. Valve assemblies for heating devices
US20080153045A1 (en) 2006-12-22 2008-06-26 David Deng Control valves for heaters and fireplace devices
US7458386B2 (en) 2006-12-30 2008-12-02 Ningbo Wanan Co., Ltd. Manual gas valve with natural/LP gas conversion capability
ES2330596B1 (en) 2007-01-05 2010-09-14 Coprecitec, S.L. GAS DISTRIBUTOR FOR A KITCHEN WITH AN EMERGENCY TAP.
DE102007011084B4 (en) 2007-02-28 2013-11-28 Südmo Holding GmbH Valve device for a plant for product management, such a plant and a method for operating the same
US7766006B1 (en) 2007-03-09 2010-08-03 Coprecitec, S.L. Dual fuel vent free gas heater
US8057219B1 (en) 2007-03-09 2011-11-15 Coprecitec, S.L. Dual fuel vent free gas heater
US8403661B2 (en) 2007-03-09 2013-03-26 Coprecitec, S.L. Dual fuel heater
CN201028619Y (en) 2007-03-19 2008-02-27 南京普鲁卡姆电器有限公司 Safe double-air supply gas combustion warmer
US20080236689A1 (en) 2007-03-26 2008-10-02 Coprecitec, S.L. Gas Valve Assembly for a Barbecue
ES1065182Y (en) 2007-03-26 2008-02-16 Coprecitec Sl DUAL GAS VALVE ADAPTED FOR CONNECTION TO A BARBECUE
JP2008291941A (en) 2007-05-25 2008-12-04 Surpass Kogyo Kk Fluid apparatus unit structure
ES1065745Y (en) 2007-06-21 2008-01-16 Coprecitec Sl WASHER CONTROL DEVICE
US9585194B2 (en) 2007-08-06 2017-02-28 Coprecitec, S.L. System for determining the nominal voltage of a power supply
CN101809353B (en) 2007-08-10 2011-12-14 日东工器株式会社 Pipe joint device
CN100491783C (en) 2007-09-07 2009-05-27 潘吉君 Low pressure combustible gas double drives valve
US8413648B2 (en) 2007-12-24 2013-04-09 Coprecitec, S.L. Fuel-fired barbecue
CN201166154Y (en) 2008-02-26 2008-12-17 南京普鲁卡姆电器有限公司 Double-air source cock valve
US7942164B2 (en) 2008-03-18 2011-05-17 Chi-Chen Hsiao Dual-purpose gas stove switch
ES1067938Y (en) 2008-05-12 2008-10-16 Coprecitec Sl PILOT FLAME BURNER WITH OXYGEN EMPOBRECIMIENTO DETECTOR
JP5641364B2 (en) 2008-06-02 2014-12-17 イートン コーポレーションEaton Corporation Valve manifold
CN201212569Y (en) 2008-07-02 2009-03-25 南京普鲁卡姆电器有限公司 Double service regulator for gas appliance
CN201228788Y (en) 2008-07-09 2009-04-29 中山市祥丰瓦斯器材制品有限公司 Gas pressure regulator valve
CN201241969Y (en) 2008-08-05 2009-05-20 谢启标 Gas valve for two air sources
ES1068657Y (en) 2008-08-06 2009-02-16 Coprecitec Sl GAS TAP WITH IGNITION SWITCH
JP2010071477A (en) 2008-09-16 2010-04-02 Shintoku Corp Nozzle body for mixed combustion of different type of gas and gas burner device
ES2335853B1 (en) 2008-10-02 2011-02-07 Coprecitec, S.L. CONTROL SYSTEM FOR THE IGNITION OF GAS BURNERS.
US8882492B2 (en) 2008-10-02 2014-11-11 Coprecitec, S.L. Control systems for the ignition of a gas burner
US8851884B2 (en) 2008-10-02 2014-10-07 Coprecitec, S.L. Control system for the ignition of a gas burner
CN101363549A (en) 2008-10-09 2009-02-11 南京斯奥欣电气具有限公司 Double-source gas combined valve
JP5774483B2 (en) 2008-10-24 2015-09-09 カーター・フューエル・システムズ・リミテッド・ライアビリティ・カンパニー Steam exhaust control device, steam exhaust control system, and marine outboard engine including the same
ES1069849Y (en) 2008-12-19 2009-09-14 Coprecitec Sl "REGULATION VALVE FOR A GAS COOKING DEVICE"
GB0900063D0 (en) 2009-01-05 2009-02-11 Madgal Csf Ltd High flow valve
ES2367684T3 (en) 2009-05-04 2011-11-07 Coprecitec, S.L. ELETRODOMESTIC WASHING EQUIPMENT AND CONTROL PROCEDURE FOR THE SAME.
ES2381512B1 (en) 2009-06-04 2013-05-07 Coprecitec, S.L DOMESTIC GAS DEVICE WITH FLAME CONTROL
US8485214B2 (en) 2009-06-22 2013-07-16 Eaton Corporation Small engine emissions control valve
US8757202B2 (en) 2009-06-29 2014-06-24 David Deng Dual fuel heating source
CN101699109B (en) 2009-10-29 2011-07-20 南京普鲁卡姆电器有限公司 Double-air source selection valve
CN101701635B (en) 2009-11-27 2011-02-09 南京普鲁卡姆电器有限公司 Double gas source selection valve with stopping function
CN201651456U (en) 2009-12-01 2010-11-24 陈文周 Dual differential pressure gas valve
CN201606540U (en) 2009-12-04 2010-10-13 中山市祥丰瓦斯器材制品有限公司 Fuel gas safety valve with automatic temperature control
US9829195B2 (en) 2009-12-14 2017-11-28 David Deng Dual fuel heating source with nozzle
US10502455B2 (en) 2010-01-14 2019-12-10 Invensys Controls Australia Pty Ltd. System and method to reduce standby energy loss in a gas burning appliance and components for use therewith
CN201621334U (en) 2010-01-22 2010-11-03 普鲁卡姆电器(上海)有限公司 Full automatic gas system with double gas sources
CN201739559U (en) 2010-01-22 2011-02-09 普鲁卡姆电器(上海)有限公司 Double gas source fuel gas control device capable of selecting gas outlet automatically
JP5256545B2 (en) 2010-02-10 2013-08-07 Smc株式会社 Pressure reducing switching valve
IT1399063B1 (en) 2010-03-22 2013-04-05 Sit La Precisa Spa Con Socio Unico DEVICE FOR THE CONTROL OF DELIVERY OF A FUEL GAS TOWARDS A BURNER UNIT
US8123150B2 (en) 2010-03-30 2012-02-28 General Electric Company Variable area fuel nozzle
US20110284791A1 (en) 2010-05-24 2011-11-24 Ernesto Vasquez Spring seat for use with actuators
WO2011156425A2 (en) 2010-06-07 2011-12-15 David Deng Heating system
CN101881481B (en) 2010-06-10 2012-08-15 普鲁卡姆电器(上海)有限公司 Dual-gas source combustion device
CN101865312B (en) 2010-06-13 2012-01-04 普鲁卡姆电器(上海)有限公司 Double gas source high-flow pressure reducing valve
CN101943476B (en) 2010-09-08 2012-09-26 中山华帝燃具股份有限公司 Automatic temperature-regulating and pressure-stabilizing water-gas linkage valve of gas water heater
CN201779762U (en) 2010-09-16 2011-03-30 南京普鲁卡姆电器有限公司 Double-gas source ceramic plate gas heater
IT1403356B1 (en) 2010-12-27 2013-10-17 Sit La Precisa Spa Con Socio Unico DEVICE FOR CONTROLLING THE DISTRIBUTION OF A FUEL GAS TOWARDS A BURNER, PARTICULARLY FOR WATER HEATERS
CN201982726U (en) 2011-02-23 2011-09-21 南京普鲁卡姆电器有限公司 Self-plugging multi-air source reducing valve
US9200802B2 (en) 2011-04-08 2015-12-01 David Deng Dual fuel heater with selector valve
CN202884327U (en) 2012-07-04 2013-04-17 普鲁卡姆电器(上海)有限公司 Safe gas inlet device and double-gas-source barbecue BBQ oven and fuel gas control system thereof
CN202708209U (en) 2012-07-02 2013-01-30 普鲁卡姆电器(上海)有限公司 Double gas supply gas valve
CN202708189U (en) 2012-07-02 2013-01-30 普鲁卡姆电器(上海)有限公司 Dual-source gas valve
CN202360799U (en) 2011-10-20 2012-08-01 南京普鲁卡姆电器有限公司 Double-gas source fuel gas control system
US9170016B2 (en) 2012-08-22 2015-10-27 David Deng Dual fuel heater with selector valve
CN202955780U (en) 2012-09-13 2013-05-29 普鲁卡姆电器(上海)有限公司 Self-adaptation type multiple gas source gas control system and heating device
CN202884174U (en) 2012-10-19 2013-04-17 普鲁卡姆电器(上海)有限公司 Self-adaption double-air-source valve
CN102506198B (en) 2011-10-20 2013-05-22 南京普鲁卡姆电器有限公司 Dual-gas-source gas self-adaptive main control valve
CN202884149U (en) 2012-08-22 2013-04-17 普鲁卡姆电器(上海)有限公司 Self-adaption type gas reducing valve and gas valve
CN102494164B (en) 2011-12-02 2013-04-24 南京普鲁卡姆电器有限公司 Gas adaptive integration valve with double air sources
CN102661409B (en) 2012-05-10 2013-12-11 南京普鲁卡姆电器有限公司 Dual-air source integrated valve and air-outlet pressure adaptive regulation method
CN202955313U (en) 2012-10-19 2013-05-29 普鲁卡姆电器(上海)有限公司 Double gas source gas valve with adjustable air door

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3430655A (en) * 1967-04-11 1969-03-04 Forney Eng Co Monoblock valve
US20080153044A1 (en) * 2006-12-22 2008-06-26 David Deng Control valves for heaters and fireplace devices
US20120187318A1 (en) * 2011-01-26 2012-07-26 Yu-Li Chen Gas valve with improving safety structure

Cited By (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20130059256A1 (en) * 2010-05-20 2013-03-07 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH Gas valve unit having two gas outlets
US9822975B2 (en) * 2010-05-20 2017-11-21 BSH Hausgeräte GmbH Gas valve unit having two gas outlets
US20130101945A1 (en) * 2011-10-25 2013-04-25 Michael S. Mulberry Dual fuel heater
US9188334B2 (en) * 2011-10-25 2015-11-17 Sure Heat Manufacturing, Inc. Dual fuel heater
US9423123B2 (en) 2013-03-02 2016-08-23 David Deng Safety pressure switch
US9752779B2 (en) 2013-03-02 2017-09-05 David Deng Heating assembly
WO2016040851A1 (en) * 2014-09-11 2016-03-17 Colorado State University Research Foundation Side-feed forced-air biomass burning cookstove
US20180038592A1 (en) * 2016-08-04 2018-02-08 Hayward Industries, Inc. Gas Switching Device And Associated Methods
CN106885006A (en) * 2017-03-20 2017-06-23 中山利特隆瓦斯器材有限公司 Baking box intake valve with gas versatility
US11225807B2 (en) 2018-07-25 2022-01-18 Hayward Industries, Inc. Compact universal gas pool heater and associated methods
US11649650B2 (en) 2018-07-25 2023-05-16 Hayward Industries, Inc. Compact universal gas pool heater and associated methods

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US9739389B2 (en) 2017-08-22

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US8752541B2 (en) Heating system
US8985094B2 (en) Heating system
US9739389B2 (en) Heating system
US9752782B2 (en) Dual fuel heater with selector valve
US9523497B2 (en) Dual fuel heater with selector valve
US9200802B2 (en) Dual fuel heater with selector valve
US10240789B2 (en) Dual fuel heating assembly with reset switch
US9170016B2 (en) Dual fuel heater with selector valve
US9222670B2 (en) Heating system with pressure regulator
US20160161146A1 (en) Dual fuel heater with selector valve
US10429074B2 (en) Dual fuel heating assembly with selector switch
US10073071B2 (en) Heating system
US10222057B2 (en) Dual fuel heater with selector valve
US9175848B2 (en) Dual fuel heater with selector valve
WO2014008142A1 (en) Heating system
WO2014031768A1 (en) Dual fuel heater assembly with selector valve
WO2014042837A1 (en) Dual fuel heating apparatus

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
STCF Information on status: patent grant

Free format text: PATENTED CASE

FEPP Fee payment procedure

Free format text: ENTITY STATUS SET TO SMALL (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: SMAL); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: SMALL ENTITY

MAFP Maintenance fee payment

Free format text: PAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEE, 4TH YR, SMALL ENTITY (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: M2551); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: SMALL ENTITY

Year of fee payment: 4